AN INCREASED police presence will be seen in Harrogate in coming weeks.

Project Servator, North Yorkshire Police's unpredictable policing scheme, launched in York in 2017 and is being rolled out in Harrogate in the run up to Christmas.

Servator deploys highly visible and covert police officers alongside police dogs, Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras, firearms officers, and CCTV in busy areas such as town centres, in an aim to deter, disrupt and detect crimes from pickpockets to terrorism.

Acting Superintendent John Wilkinson said: "Our officers have been engaging with businesses and the local community over the last month to introduce them to the Project Servator concept and explain the vital role they have to play.

"Don’t be surprised or alarmed if you see a heavy police presence in key shopping or tourist areas, these are simply to prevent crime and engage with shoppers, visitors and businesses. If you see us, please stop and say hello and find out how you can help us keep Harrogate safe."

To report suspicious activity, phone the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, suspicious activity residents believe may be linked to terrorism can be reported confidentially on 0800 789321 or online at the Action Counters Terrorism website, gov.uk/ACT