Troops In Post-Manchester Security Operation Stood Down

Hundreds of troops have been stood down as the huge security operation launched following the Manchester bombing comes to a close.

Around 1,000 military personnel deployed alongside police amid fears further attacks could be imminent will have returned to their bases by the end of Thursday.

Operation Temperer was activated after the official threat level was raised to critical, the highest level, for the first time in almost a decade.

Members of the armed forces were drafted into back-fill guard duties at key sites - freeing up extra armed police officers to be posted around the country.

Over the weekend, the threat assessment was changed back to severe, the second most serious rating.

This indicates an attack is considered "highly likely".

Military support was kept in place over the Bank Holiday as hundreds of events were held around the country before the measure was gradually scaled back this week.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, Chief of the Defence Staff, said:

"I pay tribute to all involved in the UK armed forces for the support given to the police following last week's tragic attack in Manchester.

"Whether in niche or specialist roles in support of law enforcement or in static support of policing, the collective calm professionalism of the military has been evident for all to see.

"Of course, our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones or suffered life-changing injuries and we must all stay vigilant against further attacks or atrocities.

"Wherever based or deployed, many in the armed forces and wider defence family do and will continue to make an important contribution to our nation's efforts to counter terrorism."