Armed police officers are in Manchester city centre today as part of plans to provide 'increased visibility'.
Greater Manchester Police chiefs announced earlier this month that the Specialist Operations (SO) branch would be sending armed officers out on routine patrol more often.
They said it followed feedback from members of the public and businesses that they found it reassuring, particularly when they are at large events such as the Christmas Markets.
On Tuesday morning, SO officers were spotted strolling through Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street and Mosley Street.
They were carrying what appears to be the standard Heckler & Kock submachine gun and Glock pistol used by Greater Manchester Police and wearing stab vests.
While the sight of armed police on routine patrol is common in many parts of Europe, it marks a change of direction in the UK.
Read more of today's top stories
Security services currently say the threat from international terrorism remains 'severe'.
It has remained so since October 2014, apart from a short period when it was raised to 'critical' following the Manchester Arena bombing.
Woman rescued after car driven into lake at Sale Water Park
GMP bosses say they don't want the public to find armed officers intimidating and encouraged people to come and say hello.
The patrols are not in response to any specific threat but to 'simply provide visible reassurance', police said.
Superintendent Mark Dexter, of GMP’s Specialist Operations Branch, said earlier this month: "As front line responders we understand that the public want to see more officers out and about in Greater Manchester, particularly when they are at large events such as concerts and football matches.
"We have worked closely with our partners within the city and wider afield as we look to engage with businesses, companies and communities alike to support Greater Manchester across the summer months and beyond."
"We hope by increasing our armed officer visibility, it shows that we do listen to feedback and this move will make you feel safer and more relaxed while out enjoying yourselves.
"I know some people can find armed officers intimidating and might feel nervous about seeing them however we’d like to reassure people that they are there to help in any way they can just like unarmed officers you’d see on patrol.
"They are normal people just like you and me, with families and friends, and I am sure that they would appreciate hellos, smiles and friendly words whilst carrying out their duties.
"Our number one priority is keeping the public safe and if this increased visibility helps people feel more at ease, then we see this as a positive step."
Police have seized this enormous weapon from a man brandishing it on the street
