Isle of Wight Council Leader Dave Stewart is encouraging everyone to continue business as usual in solidarity with London and not give in to acts such as yesterday’s terrorist attack.
The event, which has led to the understandable cancellation of the visit to the Island of the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, serves as a reminder to everyone that, although they still need to aware of the need to be vigilant about their personal safety and look out for each other, hatred and intolerance will not win.
The flags at County Hall will fly at half-mast today in tribute to those killed and injured in the awful events of yesterday.
If you should spot anything unusual or suspicious, Councillor Stewart, himself a former police officer, asks that it is reported to the Police using either the 101 phone number or if appropriate the 999 system.
Councillor Stewart has said:
“We are known to be a safe community here on the Island but we need to do our part to ensure it stays that way by being alert to any strange activity or individuals in our midst and if in doubt to report our concerns to the police.
“I will be meeting with our emergency planning team to give them my full support for any plans and actions they need to take to ensure the Island’s on-going safety.
“Most importantly, we must not let these individuals disrupt our way of life and so we must do all we can to protect ourselves and our Island community.”
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Meanwhile Hampshire Constabulary’s Chief Constable has reassured Islanders that there is no specific intelligence to suggest an immediate threat.
In a statement issued this morning, Chief Constable Olivia Pinkney said:
“Our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of those killed and seriously injured as a result of the events in London yesterday.
“There is currently no specific intelligence to indicate an immediate threat to any locations within the UK, including Hampshire or the Isle of Wight.
“As is standard procedure whenever an incident like this happens, whether in the UK or abroad, we are reviewing our security procedures and resources to ensure that they are appropriate and if any changes need to be made.
“We have also reviewed all pre-planned events taking place in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight in the coming days, as is normal procedure, to ensure all plans are up-to-date.
“At this time we are satisfied our plans are robust but we will continue to review the situation and follow any national guidance.
“We understand that the events in London yesterday may cause people to worry but we would renew our advice to our communities to be alert but not to be alarmed.
“We would advise members of the public to remain vigilant and if you see anything that causes you concern or raises your suspicions do not hesitate to call the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321, or 999 in an emergency.”
