RAIL passengers will see a heightened police presence at Colchester station and on board Greater Anglia trains as the terrorism threat level remains critical across the country.

British Transport Police and Essex Police officers are stationed at Colchester today to reassure the public after a suspected terrorist attack killed 22 people at Manchester Arena on Monday night.

Yesterday, officers stopped cars in Colchester High Street and patrolled in Culver Square. Extra security checks are also being carried out at the barracks.

British Transport Police, who are specially trained in counter terrorism policing, encouraged passengers at the station to stop and say hello to the officers keeping them safe.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the BTP said: "In light of recent events, you will have seen the UK threat level in relation to international terrorism increased to critical overnight. This means that we could experience some form of attack imminently.

"At British Transport Police, we have more officers than usual patrolling at stations as well as on trains across the country. They’re there to make sure you feel safe and know that we are there to protect you.

"You may also see some of our armed officers at stations or on trains where you wouldn’t normally expect them to be. Please don’t be alarmed by this, we want to make sure that we are covering as much of the rail network as possible.

"Whilst we have more BTP officers at stations across the country and have asked you to be vigilant, this does not mean that any specific intelligence has been received relating to our stations or that there is an increased risk of travelling by train or tube.

"However, we understand that news about the threat level could be worrying, so do not hesitate to talk to one of our officers if you need any help or advice."

Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Hanstock said: "Our officers have been given specialist training in counter terrorism policing – including behavioural awareness skills. This means that their day-to-day policing role is keenly focussed on keeping passengers and staff as safe as possible.

"Over the coming days, we’ll be keeping a close eye to keep you safe, as well as making sure the nation’s railways keep functioning as usual.

"I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone to stay calm, be vigilant, and if you spot anything at all which gives you cause for concern, let us know.

"In light of the dreadful events over these last few days, and the increase to the national threat level, nothing should be considered too trivial to report and any information – regardless of whether you feel it is significant or not – may be important to all of us."

The BTP is urging anyone to report anything suspicious.

This includes any unusual activity or behaviour that strikes you as not quite right and out of place.

If you see anything suspicious, call the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321.

A textphone service is available if you have speech or hearing difficulties 0800 032 4539 (text messages from mobiles not accepted).

To get in touch with British Transport Police directly, call 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016.

In case of an emergency, always ring 999.