Police advise pubs with outdoor seating about terror attacks

Police briefed Edinburgh bars with outdoor seating about how to deal with terror attacks.

Hospitality businesses in George Street, including two JD Wetherspoon pubs The Standing Order and Alexander Graham Bell, were taken through procedures.

It is understood the visits have taken place before but were in anticipation of businesses getting busier.

Staff at hospitality businesses were also informed about the Action Counters Terrorism app which provides up to date guidance and advice on dealing with a terror related incident.

The app can provide practical advice to protect businesses in sectors which attract crowds, as well as key steps to take in the event of such an incident.

Incident response plans and checklists are detailed for various scenarios such as a bomb threat, suspicious vehicle or firearms or weapons attack.

The app also enables users to report suspicious activity.

Fencing surrounding the outdoor seating area at the Alexander Graham Bell is to protect customers from cars using the street, particularly those parking nearby including motorists reversing out of or driving into spaces in the middle of the road.

A JD Wetherspoon spokesperson said: “Obviously, the safety of our staff and customers is paramount and we are more than happy to take on board the briefing by the police in Edinburgh.”

Chief Superintendent Sean Scott said: “As we see people returning to our towns and cities as coronavirus restrictions ease, it is important that everyone feels safe as we move back towards a more normal way of life.

“Businesses, along with the public, play a key role in remaining vigilant and we carry out regular visits across the country to offer advice on the simple steps we can all take.

“Licensed premises are an important part of that security and we provide licensees with information on a range of measures they can take to keep their customers safe, how to spot unusual activity and how to report any concerns to us.

“Our visits to premises in Edinburgh this week are part of this wider effort to keep our communities safe.”