OFFICERS in Hampshire will join a nationwide campaign to get the public involved in stopping terrorism.

Today sees the start of Counter Terrorism Awareness Week, a national initiative to get people to look out for radicalisation and signs that terrorist-related activity may be happening.

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary will speak to groups in the private and public sector, including schools and colleges, carry out operations at ports and show how police work with farmers to ensure their fertilizer is stored securely.

They will also advice people about safe ways to donate money to charity to ensure that they do not unknowingly fund terrorism, and speak to students about the practical help on offer to stop people from being drawn into terrorism.

Hampshire’s Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: “Local businesses and members of the public have a vital role to play in helping to keep their communities safe.

“We are growing increasingly aware of the potential for radicalisation of our young people, this is a national issue which we sadly have first hand experience of within Hampshire.”

Four young men from Portsmouth have died while fighting for the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. A fifth man remains in the Middle East while a sixth man, Mashadur Choudhury, 31, was jailed on his return to the UK.

Chief Constable Marsh added: “The week is not designed to scare people, but to reassure that we are prepared, and enhance the public’s understanding of any potential threat they face, and encourage them to report it to the police.”

Anyone who sees anything suspicious can call 999 or the anti-terrorist hotline, 0800 789 321.