Cheshire Police are stepping up security at Chester Races tomorrow after the terrorist bomb at Manchester Arena killed 22 people, including Cheshire officer Elaine McIver.
The force says there will be extra security measures in place as around 25,000 racegoers are expected to attend the races.
Police around the country are responding to the heightened security threat in place in the UK after Monday night’s horrific attack which has also left 66 people in hospital.
Off duty Cheshire Police officer Elaine (pictured), 43, was among the 22 people who died in the bombing after the Ariana Grande concert.
Chief Inspector Richard Rees, Cheshire Police Commander for Chester races, said: “With more than 25,000 racegoers expected to attend Chester this Saturday, I want to reassure everyone that they will see an increased police presence to ensure they have a safe and enjoyable time.
“Although there is no direct threat to the races, in light of the tragic events in Manchester we want Saturday to be extra secure to reassure and protect those attending.
“This means there will be extra security measures put in place with regular bag and transport searches as well as ticket checks being carried out.
“In order for these searches to be carried out efficiently, I would urge racegoers to arrive at the racecourse as soon as possible to avoid any delays and to be patient as it may take longer than normal to get into the racecourse.
“These security checks are being put in place to help increase public safety and provide greater protection to the event.
“Following the decision by the Prime Minister to raise the national threat level to critical, Operation Temperer has been activated and as a result racegoers may see an armed police presence.
“This isn’t cause for alarm but for further visible reassurance.
“I also want to remind the public to stay alert, be extra vigilant and if they see any suspicious behaviour to either report it to an officer, call the Anti-Terror hotline on 0800 789321 or in an emergency call 999.”
Chief Constable Simon Byrne and Cheshire Police & Crime Commissioner David Keane paid tribute to Elaine, who had joined the force almost 20 years ago.
Chief Constable Byrne said: “Elaine worked in Ellesmere Port, Warrington and in the Economic Crime Unit at headquarters in Winsford before moving to the regional organised crime unit TITAN in 2013.
“Friends who knew her well have described her as big-hearted, bubbly and a positive person.
“We are supporting her family at this very difficult time, and will be providing support for friends and colleagues from the Constabulary as we come to terms with the loss of an officer in such tragic and heart-rending circumstances.
“We will not let evil win.”
Cheshire Police & Crime Commissioner David Keane said: “Our thoughts are with Elaine’s family, friends and colleagues.
“We will be doing everything we can to support Elaine’s family and our officers and staff. It is at moments like this that we must remain unified and strong.”
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