GMP will review policing plans ahead of major events following Orlando terrorist attack

Chief Superintendent Zoe Sheard with Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle

Greater Manchester Police will be reviewing policing plans ahead of all major events following the recent terrorist attack in Orlando.

GMP will be working in-line with the national response to the terrorist attack at an LGBT nightclub in Orlando, Florida, in the early hours of Sunday 12 June 2016.

Chief Superintendent Zoe Sheard said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with those affected by the horrific events that unfolded in Orlando over the weekend. This is an attack on people in the LGBT community, who simply want to live their lives freely and we will not tolerate it.

“Whilst there is no specific threat to the communities of Greater Manchester, as after any atrocity such as this, we will be reviewing our policing plans all for major events. This will include Sparkle in July and Manchester Pride at the end of August, as well as other LGBT events taking place across Greater Manchester over the coming months.

“I understand that Manchester people will be horrified by what has happened and we are taking action to protect members of our LGBT communities here in Greater Manchester. We are increasing our police patrols in key areas to offer reassurance and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.

“I want to remind the public that the national threat level remains at severe but I want to send the clear message that we must stand together, remain vigilant and go about our daily lives.”