Police dogs were called in to check Sutton train station was clear of explosives yesterday as part of a major counter terrorism operation.

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The dogs, brother and sister black labradors called Dave and Fern, worked alongside their handlers, safer neighbourhoods officers, road and transport officers and British Transport Police to reassure the public, protect public places and disrupt criminal activity.

The aim of the operation was to encourage members of the public to report anyone acting suspiciously or any suspicious packages.

Officers stood at the entrances to the station and in the car park talking to the public while Dave and Fern check for explosives.

Some officers also travelled on bus routes X26, 151 and 157 to hand out anti-terrorism leaflets to passengers while other officers attended the borough’s three bus garages in Sutton and Beddington.

The advice given to bus drivers included checking their bus for any unattended bags or packages and to query with passengers any bag or package during their journey.

Last week officers put their training to the test in a simulated terrorist attack in Carshalton alongside London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service and the Red Cross.

The Met Police is urging the public that if they see or hear something that could be terrorist related, to trust their instincts and call the confidential anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321.