This is why armed police will be at Meadowhall in Sheffield during the run-up to Christmas

But officers have urged members of the public not to be alarmed, and they are even encouraging them to come and say hello.

They do, however get a bit fed up with answering the same questions, so they’ve provided a handy FAQ to illuminate people.

South Yorkshire Police’s Operational Support Unit said: “As Christmas approaches you may see firearms officers at Meadowhall, Sheffield Christmas Markets and other crowded places.

“This isn't meant to cause alarm, we're here to keep you safe. Feel free to say 'HI', we don't bite. Answers to some common questions include:

Yes they are real

The yellow straps are plastic handcuffs

No, I'm afraid you can't borrow my TASER

Yes, it's all very heavy.”

The Facebook post, shared by Meadowhall, has prompted many people to express their gratitude for the job police do in keeping the public safe.

Stuart Cooper wrote: “Thank you for keeping us safe. It’s always nice to see you walking around Meadowhall

Susan Booth commented: “I'm always happy to see the police keeping us safe but wish if wasn't necessary. You all do a fantastic job. Thank you!”

Adele Barker said: “I work at Meadowhall and feel safe knowing you’re there. Thank you.”

Janice Everatt wrote: “Seen them today and quite a few of them. Thank you for keeping us safe, especially after what has happened in London.”

Sarah Ellerby commented: “You do an amazing job all year round to keep the rest of us safe. None of us envy what you have to do but we are truly thankful that you turn up for work each day. Thank you.”

And Mel Longden said: “We’ve been talking to them this morning. They’re really friendly and helpful. So sad we need them but so reassuring knowing they are there.”

The UK’s terrorism threat level was last month downgraded from ‘severe’ to ‘substantial’ – the lowest it has been since 2014 – meaning an attack is now considered ‘likely’ rather than ‘highly likely’.

Last Friday, November 29, two members of the public were stabbed to death and several others were injured before the attacker Usman Khan, a convicted terrorist, was shot dead by police on London Bridge.