A counter-terrorism awareness campaign is being launched across the capital today.

The operation aims to remind the public of the vital role they can play as well as highlighting the Metropolitan Police Service’s own security measures.

The initiative, known as Operation Penna, will involve co-ordinated activity taking place across all 32 boroughs until December 7.

There will be high visibility patrols in crowded places such as shopping centres and transport hubs and officers will be providing information to businesses explaining the ongoing threat from terrorism and what they can do to protect themselves.

Briefings will be held for officers to highlight the key part they play in counter-terrorism policing by providing a link between national expertise and mainstream neighbourhood policing.

Commander Richard Morris, from Specialist Operations, said: "Protective security is a key element of our counter terrorism strategy as it creates a hostile environment for people planning terrorist attacks.

Talking about the importance of public involvement, he said: "Everyone has a role to play in keeping London safe from terrorism and this operation sees specialist officers working closely with neighbourhood officers and communities, which is vital.

"Operation Penna builds on our engagement with communities and businesses in a variety of ways to counter the threat from terrorism and improve the protection from a terrorist attack, and other crime, offered to local businesses.

"The threat to London from terrorism remains real and serious so we encourage the public to remain vigilant and alert and to report anything suspicious to police."

The operation is being co-ordinated by Specialist Operations in partnership with the local police.

Anyone who has any information about unusual activity or behaviour should contact the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.

In the event of an emergency always dial 999. Further information is available at www.met.police.uk/terrorism