Extra security measures have been brought in to make sure a huge Christian gathering in Cumbria is not targeted by terrorists.

About 15,000 people are expected to descend on the county for the Keswick Convention and organisers have brought in a beefed-up security plan to keep worshippers safe.

Armed police will be deployed and are due to patrol the convention's Skiddaw Street and Rawnsley premises while planters and cars will be parked outside buildings as a deterrent against vehicle attacks.

Officials have stressed that there is no known threat to the convention but are taking no chances in the wake of terror attacks in London and Manchester in recent weeks.

Cumbria police say their presence is to reassure members of the public.

Jutta Devenish, a spokeswoman for organisers Keswick Ministries, said the searches and defensive planters precautions are advised on a national basis by the police.

She explained: "We have been taking advice from local police over a long period of time.

"They said that as these actions have been recommended on a national basis, they advise us to do the same.

"We have not been given any information that we are likely to be a target, we just want to reassure people in the town and conventioners.

"Armed police will also be on patrol in the town to reassure people and Keswick Ministries has hired its own, professional SIA trained security team.

"We have only had one enquiry about security for this year's event, which is pretty amazing."

A police spokesman said: "Cumbria Constabulary is maintaining its reassurance patrolling to ensure people can go about their business confident of their personal safety.

"As a result, people will continue to see a visible police presence throughout the county, including at large events such as Keswick Convention.

"People should not be alarmed by this. Our number one priority is always the safety of members of the public.

It runs from tomorrow to August 4 and features music and international speakers.