A MAJOR event to help police tackle terrorism has been launched in York.

Senior British Transport Police (BTP) officers and representatives from the rail industry met at the NRM yesterday to mark the launch of Counter Terrorism Awareness Week.

BTP Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Hanstock told attendees that rail staff and the public are crucial in preventing terrorism.

DCC Hanstock said: "Rail staff and passengers are our eyes and ears. Nobody is better placed to spot something out of place or suspicious, and it is their continued awareness that is vital to prevent and, if necessary, respond to a terrorist attack.

"This is not about scaring people; it is about equipping those staff who work every day on busy stations and trains with the necessary skills to act."

Under the scheme gives free counter-terrorism awareness sessions to hundreds of railway staff, briefing them on the current threat, what to look out for, how terrorist tactics are evolving and how to report suspicious behaviour, and urge passengers to report anything suspicious to officials.

DCC Hanstock urged all organisations with staff based on the railway to sign up to the free sessions.

Police forces across the country also spoke to passengers at stations around the country to mark the first day of Counter Terrorism Awareness Week.