Armed officers to patrol polling stations for Thursday's General Election following London terror attack

Armed police on St Thomas Street, London, near the scene of of terrorist incident at Borough Market. Photo: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

Cleveland Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Jason Harwin said: “The stories of those caught up in this mindless destruction are truly heart-breaking; but as strong as our pain is, our resolve not to bow or break is stronger.

“We are resolute and continue to provide officers to support colleagues in other parts of the country as they deal with the aftermath of these attacks.

“In our own area we continue to do our part. In this election week we know people will be concerned and we’ll have patrols of both armed and unarmed officers out during the coming days; including when we go to the polls on Thursday. We are doing this not because we face a specific threat, but because it is right to offer reassurance at this difficult time. As a community we should continue to be vigilant, that is only appropriate, but we must not be fearful. We should be alert but not alarmed. Suspicious activity should be reported to us or to the anti-terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321.”

Gill Alexander, Hartlepool Borough Council chief executive, said thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the horrific attack in London.

“People in Manchester have shown wonderful togetherness following the recent attack there and I am sure this will be echoed in London. I hope people across Hartlepool will take the opportunity to fall silent at 11am tomorrow in remembrance of those who lost their lives and all others affected by the attack in London on Saturday night.”