Armed police will continue to patrol Bluewater following the attack in Manchester on Monday but there will be no army in Kent.

 

The attack on Monday killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande Concert, the youngest of which was 8-years-old.

 

The army have been deployed to key locations across the country after the terror threat level was raised to 'critical'.

 

A spokesman for Bluewater said they are cooperating with the police.

 

The spokesman said: "The safety and security of our visitors is our highest priority and we continue to work closely with police and counter terrorism. As such, there have been armed police patrols at Bluewater for a number of months."

 

Kent police have not requested army assistance but confirmed that there will be greater numbers of police in key locations.

 

Bluewater Shopping Centre is the fourth biggest shopping centre in the country.

 

A spokesman for Kent Police said: "Following the events in Manchester on May 22 and the decision to increase the national threat level to `critical¿ work is underway to make sure Kent remains a safe place.

 

"This work is part of an agreed, and well-rehearsed national plan that includes the possible deployment of military personnel to support police officers. Kent Police has not requested the support of military personnel at this time.

 

"Kent Police already deploys highly-visible firearms officers at key locations in the county as part of our current deployment and as a result of this on-going work, additional police officer patrols are being arranged."

 

The threat level applies to the whole of the UK and not a specific area.

 

Armed police have been seen patrolling trains for the first time in London.

 

What do you think, would you like to see the army at Bluewater? Let us know at tom.bull@london.newsquest.co.uk