Why you'll see more armed police in Greater Manchester

Greater Manchester force's armed unit has increased by a third. Credit: PA

A ‘visible change’ in the number of armed officers at public events in Manchester will be seen over the coming months.

Police say a Home Office plan to increase the number of officers trained to use firearms has increased the Greater Manchester force's armed unit by a third.

GMP’s Specialist Operations Branch - the team responsible for armed policing in the area - says it has increased it’s patrolling of high profile venues and events.

They say this is not in response to any specific threat but aims to provide visible reassurance. Members of the public will be more likely to see armed officers at crowded events such as concerts and football matches.