Why are armed police in Birmingham today? Police explain reason for 'sirens, shouts and bangs'

Birmingham residents may see armed police, hear loud bangs and shouting today, police warned. People can expect to see an increased emergency service presence in certain locations around the city.

West Midlands Police issued information ahead of a training exercise taking place today, Wednesday, November 27. The 'live play exercise' may include firearms officers and people "may be able to hear loud noises such as sirens, shouting and bangs," the force said.

Members of the public were reassured the high visibility exercise is a pre-planned event, rather than a major incident. Staff from the force will be in the areas to "reassure" members of the public nearby.

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The force also insisted the training will not affect operational responses to incidents. A statement from West Midlands Police read: "Officers are taking part in a live play exercise in locations around Birmingham today (27 November). You may see armed police as part of this.

"This is just one of a number of vital exercises organised throughout the year, that help us to test the response of the emergency services and other partner agencies

"There will be increased emergency service activity in locations where the exercise is taking place. People may be able to hear loud noises such as sirens, shouting and bangs. High visibility exercise control staff will be in these areas to reassure any members of the public who are nearby.

"The exercise is funded as part of existing training and will not affect local policing budgets or operational responses to incidents."