PEOPLE in areas around Langport and Street are being warned they might encounter armed police, loud bangs, shouting and sirens today (May 21).

However, residents should rest assured, there is not a major emergency taking place – rather a live training exercise involving Avon & Somerset Police.

The Mendip Neighbourhood Policing team has warned people ahead of the exercise, which is set to be finished by late-afternoon.

“You are likely to see increased emergency service activity in locations where the exercise is taking place, and this might include loud noises such as sirens, shouting and bangs and you may see firearms-trained officers involved in this,” a spokesperson said.

“There is no risk to public safety and high-visibility exercise control staff will be in the area to reassure any members of the public who are nearby.

“The exercise is due to conclude by late-afternoon.

“This is just one of several vital exercises organised throughout the year that help us to test the response of the emergency services and other partner agencies.

“Rest assured, we will continue to respond to other incidents as normal even while the exercise takes place.”

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