Be prepared for a terrorist attack - that was the message to shops and businesses from a seminar in Dover.

Organised by the Dover, Deal and Sandwich Partnership Against Crime, the event encouraged people to be more aware of suspicious activity - and to report it - and gave advice on what to do should such an attack take place.

“Businesses are likely to have established and well-rehearsed evacuation procedures in the case of fire,” said a Kent police anti-terrorist officer, who can not be named for security reasons.

“But what happens in the event of a terrorist attack could be very different, and people need to be prepared for such an eventuality.

“We have found that those that are prepared are the ones that cope best with the situation they face.

“Plans need to be drawn up as to how to manage the incident - including dealing with people who may have suffered severe and horrific injuries - how to ensure staff and customers are looked after and kept safe, and then how to continue with their business afterwards.”

Representatives from many companies and community groups - including shop security guards - joined those from the ambulance service, town and district councils, police and police community support officers for the seminar.

As well as the immediate action to be taken, advice was also given on how to deal with the aftermath not only immediately after the attack but in the weeks and months that follow, to restore public, staff and customer confidence.

Another seminar is being planned for licensees and others involved in the night-time economy in Dover, Deal and Sandwich during the next few months.

Anyone interested in attending should contact DPAC co-ordinator Karen Griffiths on 01304 218172.