Residents and visitors attending the Dorking Christmas Fair this weekend were met with an unexpected sight as police officers patrolled the festive event openly carrying automatic rifles. The increased armed presence has sparked a mix of reactions, ranging from gratitude for heightened security to concern over the normalization of visible armed policing in public spaces.

Visible Armed Patrols

The officers, equipped with automatic rifles, were part of a larger policing operation intended to ensure the safety of those attending the popular fair. While the Metropolitan Police and Surrey Police have occasionally deployed armed officers at large-scale events in response to potential security threats, the sight at a smaller, community-focused fair like Dorking’s has raised eyebrows.

A local resident expressed concern, saying: “Since when was this normal? Are we just going to accept this as our new reality in Britain?”

Justification for Armed Presence

When asked for comment, a police spokesperson said:
“The visible presence of armed officers is part of a proactive approach to reassure the public and ensure their safety during high-profile and well-attended events. There is no specific intelligence of a threat related to this event.”

The police also emphasized that such deployments are a precautionary measure and form part of their overall strategy to deter and respond to potential incidents.

Public Reaction

Reactions to the armed patrols have been mixed:

• Supportive voices: Some attendees expressed appreciation for the increased security, particularly in light of recent global incidents. “It’s a shame it’s necessary, but I feel safer seeing them here,” said one parent attending with her children.
• Criticism: Others voiced unease, citing concerns about the potential for creating an atmosphere of fear or the normalization of armed police in everyday settings. A social media user posted: “This doesn’t feel like the Britain I grew up in. Do we really need this at a Christmas fair?”

The Bigger Picture

The debate reflects broader discussions about the role of armed policing in the UK, a country historically known for its unarmed constabulary. In recent years, heightened concerns about terrorism and public safety have led to an increase in armed patrols at certain events, particularly those with large crowds.

As the festive season continues, police have assured the public that all measures are being taken to strike a balance between ensuring safety and maintaining a welcoming environment. However, the sight of officers with automatic rifles at a Christmas fair has left many wondering if this signals a new era of policing in Britain.