On the alert

In particular the Warton-based British Aerospace Systems (BAE) and Blackpool airport are both operating vigilant security checks, with extra police officers being called to patrol the airport.

Lancashire's deputy chief constable,Paul Stephenson, commented: "Following yesterday's appalling events in America, we are taking careful and sensible precautions in the county.

"Together with dedicated staff at Blackpool airport we have reviewed the security measures and increased security checks on all flights. There is an increased and highly visible police presence at the airport in line with central Government's advice.

"We are also liaising with other agencies in the area with respect to public safety. We are reassuring and supporting all communities in Lancashire and asking members of the public to be extremely vigilant."

Managing director at Blackpool airport, Gary Eastwood, sent a reassuring message to people using the airport: "All our flights are operating normally at present, with planes going to London as usual. There are restrictions on flights, but these affect private flights in the main.

"We have also increased security checks on flights and have an increased police presence."

A spokesman from BAE at Warton commented on their position at present: "Yesterday (Tuesday September 11) we made our runway available to planes that had been diverted from Manchester and we have stepped up our security measures in line with the government's advice."

BNFL Springfields spokesman Alan Beauchamp said: "We always have strict security measures but we are at a higher state of alert at the moment even though we have no reason to believe we would be a target."

And Weeton Army Barracks confirmed that security awareness had been raised at all military establishments but the troops were not at a state of readiness at this time.

Anyone who is worried about friends or relatives near to any of the attacks should call (0207) 0080000.