Residents have been told not to be alarmed if they see a large number of police and military vehicles.

People in Cheriton, Folkestone, had yesterday been taken aback by a high number of emergency vehicles in their area.

Police say there is a four-day training programme taking place this month and it is not a response to any specific threat.

There is understood to be a police and military exercise taking place in the Dover area from 7pm.

When questioned by the Dover Mercury, police said they were taking part in a four-day training exercise in conjunction with other agencies.

“This exercise forms an integral part of a normal training programme and is a necessary and important test of contingency plans," said a spokesman.

“It provides invaluable training and experience for all participants.

“We carry out these exercises on a regular basis and this is not in response to any specific threat.

“Members of the public are assured that during the exercise, they will not experience any reduction in the quality of service provided.”