POSTERS alerting the public to the potential threat from terrorists are being issued by a North-East police force.

But Durham Police chiefs have stressed it is not (NOT) a reaction to any specific threat to people, places or events within the county, or anywhere else in the UK.

Assistant Chief Constable Gary Barnett said it is more a response to the "general threat" from possible terrorist activities the country is facing at large.

"The general threat to the UK is real and all communities have a role to play in defeating terrorism.

"Through public vigilance we can make the country a hostile place for terrorists and give them no place to hide."

He was commenting as anti-terrorism posters began to be distributed to businesses, organisations and public places around the force area. "Like other forces across the United Kingdom, we are giving counter-terrorism posters for display in a variety of locations to encourage people to come forward if they know or see anything that makes them think it may be linked to terrorist activity."

He said ordinary men and women may have information which could prove crucial as part of the "investigative jigsaw".

"Terrorists need places to live and people to help them.

"They need vehicles and premises such as lock-ups, or garages, and they might rent property in a particular neighbourhood. "If you're a landlord or hotelier, have you got suspicions about a tenant or guest?

"A motor trader might have suspicions about a person who has bought a vehicle."

Mr Barnett said the public's role in fighting terrorism cannot be underestimated.

"Individuals may have reservations about contacting the police in case there are other innocent explanations for their suspicions, but they shouldn't hesitate if they have any concerns," he added.

The posters alert the public to the confidential anti-terrorist hotline, on (0800) 789321, or their local police station.