Norfolk police are looking to recruit a specialist to work in communities to prevent people becoming terrorists.The force says there is no particular risk in the county but the new post is part of a Home Office initiative being rolled out across the country.

Norfolk police are looking to recruit a specialist to work in communities to prevent people becoming terrorists.

The force says there is no particular risk in the county but the new post is part of a Home Office initiative being rolled out across the country.

New funding has been provided to create 300 police posts nationwide dedicated to the government's Prevent anti-terror strategy. Norfolk had been one of 19 forces which lacked funding for thie role.

Communities Secretary John Denham said: “At the current time, the greatest terrorist threat remains that from al-Qaeda-linked violent extremism. The Prevent programme is key to our long-term success in tackling this threat.

“Prevent will only be fully effective if we respond to constructive criticisms which have come from local authorities and community

organisations actively engaged in resisting violent extremism.

“It encourages local activities to avoid crude labels which discourage wide participation, and to see the promotion of activities which develop and sustain shared values - including understanding and respect for difference - as an important component of Prevent.”

“At the same time, we also need to tackle other potential support for violent extremism; including that from racist and fascist groups and over the coming weeks we will set out further proposals for doing so.”

In Norfolk the role will be funded for an initial two years. The successful candidate will work within communities.

Successful trial projects have already seen Bedford Council working with youngsters from all faiths to build their confidence through sport and officials in Watford working to promote understanding between Christian and Muslim groups.