Police have issued an important message to shopkeepers and other businesses following rumours of unrest on social media. 

West Midlands Police said their neighbourhood policing teams have been out speaking to shopkeepers and other business owners about what they are doing to keep people safe. 

Many shop staff have been worried after hearing rumours and false information online. 

Officers have now issued guidance to businesses to keep them open and to help them stay safe. 

The top tips include:

1. If you’re part of a chain, speak to your head office about your company’s policies and make sure your staff know all of the safety and security procedures they need to follow. This includes making sure things like alarms, locks and CCTV are working.

2. If you’re an independent business, you should have your own business continuity plan. Make sure that’s up to date and your staff know all of the safety and security procedures they need to follow. This includes making sure things like alarms, locks and CCTV are working

3. Talk to other business near you and think about how you communicate with each other. Some will be part of things like Business Improvement Districts, Pub Watch or Retail Radio schemes. You may want to think about starting your own chat groups on WhatsApp, Telegram or other apps.

4. Tell us about rumours you’re hearing. This will help shape our policing plans.

5. Sign up to WMNow.co.uk for updates on policing gin your area

6. Follow us on social media for the most accurate and up to date information

Superintendent Lisa Robson, said: "The West Midlands has not seen the kind of disruption other parts of the country have experienced. We are not complacent and we recognise that people are worried because of rumours, and what they’re seeing in the news and on social media.

"We have large numbers of skilled officers on patrol and others ready to respond to emergencies. We are continually assessing all available information, reviewing our plans and talking to our partners every day."