Armed police patrol Bristol airport

The armed patrols started up again on Wednesday

Officers with guns are patrolling Bristol airport amid increased fears of terrorism.

Armed police returned to the airport on Wednesday as security was stepped up at sites across the country.

The armed patrols at Bristol Airport were first introduced after the September 11 attacks in the United States, but had recently been scaled down.

Police say there is no specific threat to Bristol airport.

We are on the lookout for suspicious packages, and for people acting out of the ordinary

Sergeant Cockerham

Inspector Andy Jackson, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "The patrols have come about as a result of discussions between the heads of Special Branch and Operations.

"The decision was taken in the light of the overall assessment of the threat nationally."

He added: "The patrols will continue for as long as there is a need for public protection and reassurance at Bristol airport."

Sergeant John Cockerham is one of the armed officers on duty at the airport.

He said: "We are on the lookout for suspicious packages, and for people acting out of the ordinary.

"If a member of the public approaches and says someone is acting suspiciously then we will pop over and make sure everything is OK."