Surrey Police are holding a workshop later this month to help local businesses prevent or recover from a terrorist attack.

While there is no specific threat to Surrey at the current time, the county’s close proximity to London means people have to remain vigilant, Surrey Police said.

Managers in retail and office-based businesses located in busy town centres have been briefed by the police on how to minimise the risk of an attack.

During the workshop, which is part of a scheme called Project Argus, businesses will be placed in the midst of a simulated terrorist attack.

Bob Stephens, head of Surrey Police’s Counter Terrorism Security Office, said: “The UK continues to be a target for terrorists, as is highlighted by the ongoing arrests and trials for terrorist-related offences across the country. The question is not if but where and when, and the managers of businesses in crowded places like our shopping centres must be prepared. These workshops will help them to do this.

“Project Argus is an excellent opportunity to judge how well prepared your business is, increase your knowledge of terrorist issues, compare notes with other local businesses or just a chance for you and selected staff to experience a well-run security exercise.

“Everyone in Surrey, whether resident, visitor or employee, can help us maintain the freedoms which we value by being alert. Recognise suspicious behaviour and if anything appears unusual, odd or different, report it. Look for people behaving in a manner which is out of place for the time or location. What they look like is irrelevant, it is what is happening, what they are doing, that is important.

“Please don’t delay; if you have any doubts about someone’s actions or behaviour contact the police. Terrorism is such a serious threat your call could be the one that prevents a tragedy.”

Suspicious activity can be reported confidentially to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789321.

The workshop takes place at the Georgian House Hotel in Haslemere High Street on Tuesday, September 29.

To reserve your place email clare.arnold@waverley.gov.uk; or call 01483 523088.

Get crime statistics for your area at elmbridgeguardian.co.uk/li