Police in Suffolk and Essex have asked people to remain vigilant following the terrorist attack in London this week – while offering reassurances that there is no cause for alarm.

Armed officers have been patrolling key locations in the region, such as crowded areas with high footfall such as town centres, airports and shopping centres.

But after the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre lowered the terrorism threat level from critical to severe, Suffolk police confirmed armed patrols would be ceasing from this evening.

It comes after an improvised device detonated on a packed London Underground train at Parsons Green station on Friday, injuring 30 people.

Two people have since been arrested on suspicion of committing terror offences; an 18-year-old man was detained at Dover port yesterday morning and a 21-year-old was arrested in Hounslow at around 11.50pm last night.

Suffolk Constabulary’s Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Kearton said: “We have taken the practical decision to retain armed officers on their heightened patrols until the end of their shift.

“Rest assured, the threat level and our response are constantly under review.

“If the threat level changes again we will be ready to put our plans back in place.

“I would continue to ask the public to remain calm but alert – if you see anything which causes you concern, then call the police immediately.”

Police advise people to look out for anything that seems suspicious and take said officers would rather investigate concerns which come to nothing, than hear about an incident which could have been prevented.

Essex Police’s gold commander assistant chief constable Pippa Mills said: “Our Metropolitan Police and national security colleagues in London have been working extremely hard in the wake of Friday’s incident which now means the threat level has been reduced.

“Essex Police, like our colleagues up and down the country, have well-rehearsed, robust plans in place for situations such as this.

“Since Friday you will have seen our officers, including those with firearms, at key locations, transport hubs and public events over this weekend.

“They have been working tirelessly to keep you safe and they will continue to do so.

“On Monday morning commuters can expect to see our armed and uniformed officers at key train stations across the county.

“Please take the time to speak to them and if you have any concerns do raise them.

“In addition to this our regular armed patrols of the county’s ports, airports and Lakeside Shopping Centre will continue.

“Although the threat level has been reduced, we must all remain vigilant. If you see something suspicious report it.

“The key to the ongoing fight against terrorism lies within the communities of our county, it is your information which helps us keep you safe and could save lives.”

For more information on how to stay safe visit /act.campaign.gov.uk/ or npcc.police.uk/staysafe.