Surrey Police have revealed they put their ability to deal with a major terrorism incident to the test.

The force teamed up with Sussex Police to carry out 'Lion's Keep' between Friday March 9 and Sunday March 11. The exercise took a year to plan and is an integral part of the Home Office's counter-terrorism programme.

Chief Constable Bob Quick, of Surrey Police, said: "Lions Keep succeeded in testing the preparedness and interoperability of the Surrey and Sussex forces in dealing with a major terrorist attack and other terrorism crimes in action.

"The sheer commitment, talent and endurance of the staff involved was clear for all to see."

More than 1,000 officers took part in the exercise and were given no warning of what disasters they would face. Working in partnership with senior cabinet officials from the government, the Home Office and British Transport Police as well as many other public bodies, the forces proved they could work together on major crimes and emergencies.

Public agencies are required by law to test emergency procedures and the exercise was not carried out in response to any specific threat.

Anyone with information about suspicious activity is urged to contact the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321.