The UK’s terror threat level has, since Salman Abedi detonated his device on Monday, been raised to ‘critical’ – the highest level for the first time in a decade.

On Friday, police revealed that they had eight men in custody “on suspicion of offences contrary to the Terrorism Act” in connection with the Manchester Arena atrocity. And the Metropolitan Police have confirmed that extra officers will be on duty this weekend for the FA Cup final at Wembley and the Premiership Rugby Final at Twickenham.

Chief Superintendent Jon Williams reassured the public, saying: “We have a long history of delivering safe and secure major sporting events. The focus is the safety and security of fans.”

He added: “Our operations will include a range of highly visible but also covert and discreet tactics and this will run far beyond the final whistle and away from specific stadia. This will also apply right throughout the transport network."

Images: BBC News/Rex Features

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