The General Election count in Angus is being conducted with an unprecedented level of security due to an increased threat level.
In the wake of terrorist attacks on London and Manchester in the past month, stations across the UK saw armed and unarmed police man polling stations.
Angus Council decided to employ a third-party organisation, certified by the SIA, to conduct bag checks and secure the Saltire Leisure Centre in Arbroath, where the count was held.
Police were present during the Scottish independence referendum of 2014, but were absent during the Scottish Government election.
Increased security was obvious and a missive to staff read: “Due to the heightened security level across the UK and on the advice of Police Scotland all bags will be searched on arrival at the count venue by an SIA approved steward.
“This may cause some delay on entering the count venue and I would ask for your patience as this important security measure is carried out.”
Local authority staff were instructed to bring only essential bags.
