Post by Kirsty on Dec 9, 2010 17:45:11 GMT
Greater Manchester Police have dismissed claims that the set of Coronation Street could be a terror target tonight.
Earlier today, a tabloid reported that intelligence of an Al-Qaeda threat had been received ahead of this evening's live episode, meaning that anti-terror police would have to be on the scene throughout.
However, speaking on behalf of the Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Superintendent Jim Liggett told The Bolton News: "I want to clarify that we have categorically not been made aware of any threat from Al-Qaeda or any other proscribed organisation.
"Quite simply, Granada approached GMP to inform us they were employing a private security firm to help ensure tonight's live programme went ahead without outside interference.
"As part of their operation they asked for police assistance and we agreed to deploy a very small number of officers and PCSOs to help patrol the set's perimeter fence. This small police operation will be paid for by Granada and will not cost taxpayers an extra penny.
"To reiterate, there is no specific intelligence threat to Coronation Street or any such event. However, the UK threat level remains at severe and people are encouraged to be vigilant."
An ITV spokesperson added: "There has been no specific threat at all, a fact which has been confirmed by Greater Manchester Police. The security measures we have undertaken are considered appropriate for an event of this importance and similar to the standard security measures that you would expect at any major football match or live concert."
Tonight's Coronation Street live episode is expected to be the highlight of the soap's 50th anniversary celebrations.
Earlier today, a tabloid reported that intelligence of an Al-Qaeda threat had been received ahead of this evening's live episode, meaning that anti-terror police would have to be on the scene throughout.
However, speaking on behalf of the Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Superintendent Jim Liggett told The Bolton News: "I want to clarify that we have categorically not been made aware of any threat from Al-Qaeda or any other proscribed organisation.
"Quite simply, Granada approached GMP to inform us they were employing a private security firm to help ensure tonight's live programme went ahead without outside interference.
"As part of their operation they asked for police assistance and we agreed to deploy a very small number of officers and PCSOs to help patrol the set's perimeter fence. This small police operation will be paid for by Granada and will not cost taxpayers an extra penny.
"To reiterate, there is no specific intelligence threat to Coronation Street or any such event. However, the UK threat level remains at severe and people are encouraged to be vigilant."
An ITV spokesperson added: "There has been no specific threat at all, a fact which has been confirmed by Greater Manchester Police. The security measures we have undertaken are considered appropriate for an event of this importance and similar to the standard security measures that you would expect at any major football match or live concert."
Tonight's Coronation Street live episode is expected to be the highlight of the soap's 50th anniversary celebrations.
