Armed police are patrolling York as part of the force’s beefed up security for Christmas.
But North Yorkshire Police are urging people not to be alarmed.
Gun-carrying officers will be seen in around the Christmas market for the next few weeks.
Police said on social media: “Things are certainly starting to get festive in our towns and cities.
“We’re deploying extra officers to busy areas, with uniformed and plain-clothed patrols in place, so we’re well prepared to make sure everyone can shop and socialise safely.
“You may also see our officers with firearms. They’re there for your safety, so please don’t be alarmed. In fact, why not stop and say hello?”
They also asked shoppers to “keep an eye out for anyone acting suspiciously or anything which doesn’t look right”.
Police said residents can report anything concerning to our officers, by calling 101, reporting online at the North Yorkshire Police website or on the ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) website.
York’s moving bollards, most of which are now in place across the city centre, were installed after Counter Terrorism Policing Teams warned that the York Christmas Market was vulnerable to a hostile vehicle attack.