Police are maintaining a high presence in Ilford Town Centre tonight, but the area remains completely open to the public.

Every shop in High Road has closed expect Primark, where some staff are standing at the doorway.

Reporter Tim Dickens, who is at the scene, said: “There’s a real unease. Everyone is looking really nervous.”

Last night police locked down the town centre at just after 6pm and riot police protected the police station.

Tonight, more than 10 police officers are standing close to the entrance of Exchange Ilford, but no trouble has been seen.

Meanwhile, steel shutters have been placed over the windows of Currys Digital in High Road.

If you see any disturbances, email zjan.shirinian@archant.co.uk, call 020 8477 3806, or tweet us at our Twitter page.