ARMED police will form a security ring of steel around Wimbledon following the horrific terror attacks in Manchester and London.
The atrocious incidents of the past couple of weeks have forced the All England Club and the Metropolitan Police to take the unprecedented steps.
The security crackdown will be the largest in the tournament’s 140-year history.
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The Met told The Daily Telegraph: “The Metropolitan Police Service is working closely with the All England Lawn Tennis Club to prepare for the 2017 Wimbledon Championships.
“We will not discuss specific security arrangements that will form part of our policing operation.
“However, in light of recent events, including the attack in Manchester, the operation has been, and will continue to be, thoroughly reviewed.
“A range of tactics will be put in place, some highly visible, including enhanced physical security and some that the public will not notice, which includes a dedicated deployment of armed officers.
“Armed officers have supported the policing operation in previous years.”
Andy Murray paid tribute immediately after reaching the quarter-finals of the French Open to those who lost their lives during the London and Manchester attacks.
The world No1 said: “It was a terrible tragedy in London, and also in Manchester, only six or seven days ago. Paris has had some problems in the last year or two.
“I am sure everybody will join me in sharing their thoughts and prayers with everyone who has been affected by this.
"It’s something that has affected large parts of Europe and all over the world.
“Obviously, we want things to keep getting better, and I appreciate people coming to the tennis, creating a great atmosphere.
"I am grateful that I’m able to perform in front of you.”
The London 2017 athletics event will see a similar level of security, while golf’s Open Championship, the British Grand Prix and Royal Ascot will consist of higher-than-usual security levels.
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