SCHOOLCHILDREN as young as 11 will be educated about the dangers of being drawn into terrorism as police go into classrooms in the county.

Specialist officers will visit schools to raise awareness of the threat of radicalisation which has already claimed the lives of four young men from Hampshire who died fighting in Syria with the Islamic State terror group.

The move comes as the county’s police force marks the start of Counter- Terrorism Awareness Week, which is a nationwide initiative.

Since the national terror threat level was increased at the end of August, police chiefs have revealed that reports of suspicious behaviour have nearly doubled.

This, they say, is down to residents becoming more vigilant – something which the force wants to encourage.

Throughout this week officers will be visiting secondary schools and universities to teach about practical ways to prevent being drawn into terrorism, with theatre groups performing plays.

Officers who specialise in preventing terrorism will also be working with the force’s dog unit to carry out operations at Southampton and Portsmouth’s ports, looking for cash and materials which could be used in the commission of terrorism.

Businesses are also being urged to check their security measures are effective and to train staff to better detect potential threats, and, if necessary, respond to an attack.

The campaign is also urging farmers to ensure fertilisers are stored securely while charities are being encouraged to ensure they have secure ways of donating money so they do not unknowingly fund terrorism.

Chief Constable Andy Marsh insisted the measures are not meant to scare people.

He said: “Local businesses and members of the public have a vital role to play in helping to keep their communities safe.

“We are growing increasingly aware of the potential for radicalisation of our young people; this is a national issue which we, sadly, have first-hand experience of within Hampshire.

“Our officers work very closely with local authorities and other partners 24 hours a day to protect the public and banish the threat of terrorism.

That work can never stop, and is more important now than ever.

He added: “We can all be doing more to protect and prepare. Simple things such as being vigilant with security in crowded places, monitoring our borders and being equipped and prepared to respond to any threat.”

To report anything suspicious call the anti-terrorism hotline on 0800 789 321. If it does not relate to an imminent threat call police on 101.