CHIEF Constable Paul Stephenson today urged people across Lancashire to remain calm after British troops began military action in Iraq.

He said there was no need for people to change their daily routines and no need to stockpile food supplies, but he urged them to be vigilant and alert.

Mr Stephenson was speaking on behalf of the Lancashire Major Incident Co-ordinating Group, a multi-agency organisation including councils, emergency services and the army.

He said: "There is no need for people to change their routines. We are aware of the recently issued advice from the Home Office but at the present time the advice for people in Lancashire is that the stockpiling of food and supplies is not necessary.

"We would also encourage people to be vigilant and alert but not to be alarmed. We do not have any specific intelligence to suggest that Lancashire is at any greater risk from the threat of terrorism than anywhere else.

"There are many different nationalities of people living in our diverse communities across the county. The situation in our communities is generally calm, however, police officers are continually monitoring local situations. "

Mr Stephenson said the level of policing required at this time will be determined by activity and intelligence.

He added: "You can rely on Lancashire Constabulary to continue to help prevent crime, disorder or terrorist activity and the other agencies and emergency services to respond appropriately."