The security response has been swift and decisive

THE British people are famed for their ability to “keep calm and carry on”. That is certainly what we have done since the terrible bombing in Manchester. The noble spirit of people who attended vigils for the victims or left tributes at the scene shows the strength of our character and the hopelessness of efforts to undermine our sense of compassion.

Carrying on with normal life has been made easier by the impressive response from the police, security services and now the army. Their ability to maintain an air of calm at a time when so many might have succumbed to panic has been a source of comfort.

Decisive, concerted and well co-ordinated action has been the key. Theresa May will surely have had no wish to see armed troops posted to guard key sites.

Yet she did not hesitate and this was a sensible response that freed up police to conduct more patrols.