POLL: Do you feel safe in Blackpool following recent terror attacks?

With two of the biggest events of the year set to be held in the resort over the next two weeks - the Livewire festival featuring Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff this weekend, and the Illuminations Switch-On next weekend - both Lancashire Police and Blackpool Council said plans have been developed to keep people safe.

Deputy council leader Gillian Campbell said: "We cannot of course reveal the detail of those as this would to some extent reduce the impact of

their effectiveness.

“As with all public places during these difficult times we would ask that the public remain aware and vigilant of anything unusual and report it to the appropriate authorities but we also do not wish to bow to the pressure of terrorism so will carry on providing entertainment for our visitors and residents.

“There is nothing to suggest that Blackpool is a target."

On Saturday, a tabloid article said 'Brits enjoying a day at the seaside are prime targets for ISIS ... looking to commit copycat attacks' following the atrocity in Spain last week.

Terrorists may target open promenades, it said, while a map of seaside resort targets featured Blackpool.

But leader of the opposition at Blackpool Council, Tony Williams, said the slow nature of traffic on Blackpool Prom meant it would be 'very difficult' for vans or large vehicles to reach high speeds.

He also said security intelligence networks in the resort were helping to keep people safe, and added: "I'm quite aware of the work police are doing behind the scenes that we don't see.

"People should not be frightened by this, or intimidated by charts based on no evidence. Blackpool is a very safe place."

Lancashire Police said armed officers will continue their patrols in a public display of reassurance, but insisted there was no credible threat against the resort.

And council leader Simon Blackburn added: "Blackpool Council work very closely with Lancashire Constabulary, and all of our tourist attractions, to ensure that residents and visitors are kept safe at all times.

"As chairman of the Local Government Association's Safer Communities Board, I am able to see the depth and breadth of the police and security services' work, and can assure the people of Lancashire that everything that can be done to prevent terrorism is being done."