Frankfurt Christmas markets visitors asked to do one thing by police

Visitors to Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market are being asked to trust their instincts and report anything suspicious as a huge security operation begins. Millions of people are expected to descend on the annual attraction in Victoria Square until it wraps up on Christmas Eve.

West Midlands Police have deployed uniformed officers, dog handlers, firearms officers and a drone team, to disrupt criminal activity. Specially-trained officers who can spot someone who may be about to commit a crime will also be amongst the festive crowds.

Stallholders and private security staff have been given Action Counter Terrorism (ACT) training to recognise signs of strange behaviour and act as additional eyes and ears for the police.

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Above all, police are asking the public to keep personal belongings out of sight to deter pickpockets and remain alert. The force said: "We’re asking the public to trust their instincts, and if you see something that doesn’t feel right, tell security or police straight away.

"We take every report seriously and you’ll never be wasting our time, so don’t wait for someone else to do it."

Chief Inspector Sinead Sweeney, from West Midlands Police, said: "As always, we are excited to welcome the Frankfurt Christmas Market back to Birmingham and the many, many visitors it attracts each year.

“We will have extra officers in and around the market and the wider city centre keeping visitors and traders safe and they'll also be on hand to help anybody who has any concerns.

"We know the lead up to Christmas can be busy, and we want you to enjoy the festivities safely. Public vigilance is vital when it comes to keeping everyone safe.