Dedicated police team for airport

A dedicated team of 10 police officers will operate around the airport

A dedicated team of police officers is to work at Liverpool's John Lennon Airport in a bid to address counter-terrorism issues and reduce crime.

Ten officers, funded by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), will operate on the site on a 24-hour basis.

Their high-visibility presence is regarded as a proactive stance to help deter crime.

They will also work alongside private security firms within the airport to target potential terrorism threats.

Assistant Chief Constable Patricia Gallan said: "It was decided that the airport community needed local officers dedicated to addressing the important issues affecting the airport.

"One of the key roles for the team will include working, alongside the private security firms within the airport, to address counter-terrorism issues which affect every airport in the UK.

"This will include joint training, enabling our partners in the security industry to continue to play a crucial part in helping us to defeat terrorism and ensuring the safety of the residential, working and travelling communities of Merseyside."

Mark Whitworth, chief executive of John Lennon Airport owners Peel Airports, added: "The airport has always enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Merseyside Police and whilst crime across the airport remains low, we are happy if Merseyside Police want to add to their resources here.

"These officers will be a welcome addition to the airport community and to the two private security firms already established here."