ARMED officers patrolled railway stations yesterday as Sussex Police increased their visible presence across highly populated public areas.

Security has been stepped up and extra policing is being considered for big events in Brighton and Hove this weekend in the wake of the Manchester terror attack.

Sussex officers with guns were stationed at both Brighton and Lewes stations during the morning and evening rush hours yesterday.

Police vans were stationed outside the Brighton Centre where delegates were attending the Public and Commercial Services’ union annual conference.

Further patrols were seen at the Palace Pier and along Brighton seafront after Prime Minister Theresa May increased the nation’s terror threat from severe to critical – the highest alert level – meaning an attack is thought be imminent.

It is the first time the most serious rating has been reached for nearly a decade.

Meanwhile hundreds of people attended vigils across Brighton and Hove as a mark of respect for the 22 people who were killed and dozens more seriously injured when Salman Abedi detonated a device as fans left Ariana Grande’s gig at Manchester Arena on Monday night.

Sussex Police said they were considering deploying extra policing at Hove Carnival on Monday and Brighton and Hove Food and Drink Festival which starts on Saturday.

British Transport Police said their armed presence at train stations would increase in the coming days but insisted the measure did not mean there was “any specific intelligence” relating to the rail network or that there is an increased risk of travelling by train.

Sussex’s armed officers shifts have been increased from eight to 12 hours in light of the increased threat, however at the moment they have not decided to call in the assistance of armed troops – as has been seen London.

Sussex Police said: “Resourcing and extra policing at events over the bank holiday weekend are currently being reviewed by both ourselves and organisers.

“Sussex Police continue to keep all policing under review and in light of the increased threat level we have increased our armed policing (ARV) capability by increasing our current armed officers’ shifts to 12 hours. We have also enhanced high visibility policing.”

The presence of armed officers at Brighton Station yesterday sparked a mixed response from commuters.

Amy Beckwith said on Twitter: “Police with massive guns are patrolling Brighton station. Makes me feel so uneasy.”

James Hallwood said: “Armed police at Brighton Station. Instinctive reaction was to feel reassured rather than my usual discomfort with it, unsure that’s good.”

The Royal Sussex County Hospital was also implementing increased security measures yesterday.

A spokeswoman said it meant extra security staff would be on duty and patrolling the hospital and there will be more ID checks.

And Paul Barber, chief executive of Brighton and Hove Albion, said: “There will be a further tightening of our protocols. I would expect next season supporters will experience another level than what they have experienced this season, but that’s all for their safety.”