Police have upped security at Manchester Airport , transport hubs and ‘iconic locations’ across the region in the wake of this morning’s devastating Brussels attacks.

All flights between Manchester and Brussels have also been cancelled after three explosions in the Belgian capital left at least 21 dead and scores of people injured.

Greater Manchester Police have now increased their armed presence at the airport and upped patrols in crowded areas and key locations across the city.

Pictures from Brussels following attacks at an airport and Metro station

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The UK terror threat alert has not been increased, however – and there is not believed to be a specific threat to the region.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “My heartfelt condolences go out to all of those affected by the shocking terrorist attacks in Brussels this morning. Whilst there is no specific threat to our communities here in Greater Manchester, it is a reminder to us all of the need to be vigilant. I would urge people to report anything suspicious to the Police.

"Officers and staff from Greater Manchester Police and the North West Counter Terrorism Unit work tirelessly to keep us all safe, but we can only do this with the continued support of the public.

"The aim of terrorists is to divide society and spread fear. At this awful time our communities across Greater Manchester should stand together and support each other more than ever. We will stand be standing together with them."

Assistant Chief Constable John O’Hare said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by the incidents in Brussels today.

“There is no specific threat in Greater Manchester following the events this morning but we remain at a threat level of severe.

“We are working closely with Manchester Airport to ensure that the appropriate response is in place and we have increased our patrols to support this.

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“We will continue to review the situation and maintain our increased patrols in crowded areas, iconic locations and transport hubs.

“The events today in Brussels reinforce the need for us all to remain vigilant and report any concerns whilst continuing with normal daily life.”

At about 8am this morning there were two explosions at Brussels airport, reportedly followed by shouting in Arabic.

Around the same time there was a third explosion on its metro network at Maalbeek, just yards from the EU’s main institutions.

Brussels is now in lockdown with residents being told to avoid crowded areas. Its tube network has been closed.

Video: Passengers flea Brussels Airport following an explosion

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All flights between Brussels and Manchester have been cancelled, three of them inbound and two outbound.

A Manchester Airport spokesman said: “In response to this morning’s events at Brussels Airport, the police presence has been increased in landside areas at Manchester Airport.

“It is important to note that these are precautionary measures and we continue to closely monitor the situation.

“If flying to Brussels please check your flight status with your airline.”