Business leaders were given some timely advice about the threats of cyber-crime at the latest Blackpool Protect and Prepare Business Group Meeting.

Representatives from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU) gave a presentation on the types of cyber-crime that are currently in operation and the steps that can be taken to prepare and protect businesses and individuals against criminals. The group also took part in an interactive exercise to emphasise the points that were made during the presentation.

Special guest speaker was Travis Frain OBE DL who spoke about his experiences of being a survivor of the London Bridge terrorist attack in March 2017.

Travis began working in counter terrorism and as a survivors’ advocate after he suffered extensive injuries in the incident.

He founded the organisation Resilience in Unity in 2021 to counter radicalisation through empowering the voices of those with lived experience – including former extremists and survivors of terrorism.

Neil Williams, Chair of the Lancashire Resilience Forum’s Protect and Prepare Group, organised the event.

He said: “These sessions are held three times a year and see some of the resort’s businesses come together to discuss some of the key issues of the moment such as cyber-crime and potential changes in legislation, such as the Terrorism Protection of Premises Act (Martyn’s Law), that may affect them.

“We also look to have a guest speaker where we can, and I would like to thank Travis for giving up his time to tell his compelling story and the NWROCU for giving some excellent advice in relation to cyber.’’