CHRISTMAS shoppers are set to see armed police patrolling Liverpool city centre during the festive period.

As part of Operation Exemplar officers from the mounted section, armed officers, constables, police community support officers will be visible around festive attractions including Christmas markets.

It is hoped the new high-visible tactic will tackle all forms of crime including terrorism and will encourage the public to report suspicious activity.

Superintendent Mark Wiggins said: “Visitors to the city can expect to see more high visibility policing in the city centre in the run-up to Christmas.

“This is not in response to any direct threat but just to ensure visitors to the city centre feel reassured that they can go about their business and enjoy the festive attractions that the city has got to offer.

"Most major police forces in the UK will be deploying their staff in a similar fashion and we know when this has been done on Merseyside on previous occasions we have received positive feedback from the public.

“Where and when we deploy to is designed to be unpredictable and show that we can turn up in a location anytime so it sends a strong message to criminals intent on causing harm that they should think again or risk being caught.

“The public have a big part to play in helping us gather the information we need to tackle all types of crime, from pickpocketing to terrorism and Operation Exemplar is a vital way of getting that message across.

“I would encourage people to engage with our staff when they see them and feel confident to raise any concerns they may have so that we can address them.”