Manchester troops are 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 returned to their bases last night.

Their initial deployment was activated after the official terror threat level was raised to critical.

Members of the armed forces were drafted in to perform guard duties at key sites – freeing up armed police officers to be posted around the country.

Over the weekend, the threat assessment was changed to severe, 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.

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.”

“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.”