Markets safe, say police

Rochdale Market

There is no sign of any imminent strike, Greater Manchester Police have assured in the wake of Monday night's horrific lorry attack in Berlin.

On Monday night a man, in what German police are investigating as a "probable terrorist attack", ploughed a lorry into a Christmas market in the centre of Berlin, killing 12 people and injuring a further 48.

In light of the attack GMP will work in line with the national response and have strengthened their policing presence at Manchester Christmas Markets.

Assistant Chief Constable Debbie Ford said: "Our thoughts are with all those affected by the tragic incident in Berlin.

"GMP already has a visible policing operation in place around the Christmas markets, in the city centre, and in other key areas across Greater Manchester in the run-up to Christmas.

"We will be working in line with the national response and have strengthened our policing presence at the Manchester Christmas Markets and stepped up visible patrols, to ensure that people feel safe to go about their daily lives."

She added: "I would like to stress at this point that there is absolutely no information or intelligence suggesting any attack is imminent in Greater Manchester. If you do have concerns at all don't hesitate to get in touch with police."