A Buckinghamshire city will be the subject of a critical security operation over the coming days as police prepare for leaders from around the world to join Rishi Sunak in a summit on artificial intelligence.

Thames Valley Police will employ a drone unit, as well as its mounted horse-rider section, to keep an eye out for any ‘criminal activity’ during the Prime Minister’s artificial intelligence summit at Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes next week.

On Wednesday, November 1, and Thursday, November 2, key players in the innovation of artificial intelligence will meet at Bletchley Park, a country estate that was the centre of allied codebreaking during the Second World War, for discussions the Prime Minister hopes will cement the UK’s status as a leading world-player in the cutting-edge technology.

Thames Valley Police’s mounted officer unit already has experience managing large football crowds, protecting the royal family and supporting officers in local arrests for a wide range of offences during daily patrols.

The support of high-flying drones over the two-day period is expected to cement the force’s handle on any suspicious activity that could put global officials or nearby residents at risk.

Inspector Chris Simpson, of the Joint Operations Unit, said: “Our expert mounted section and drone unit are just some of the many additional security measures we have in place to ensure the safety both of delegates to the summit and residents and businesses.

“Our mounted officers will be happy to explain what they are doing and answer any questions that you may have, and our police horses enjoy the attention they get from the public so please do stop and speak with them when you spot them on patrol!”

READ MORE: Airspace restrictions enforced in Bletchley ahead of summit

He added: “We also have specially trained uniformed and non-uniformed officers patrolling in Bletchley and the wider Milton Keynes area. Working together, teams on the ground and those with a higher perspective are out to disrupt criminal behaviour and reassure the public.

“We also rely on our community to support us and report anything that seems suspicious. The measures we have in place are to ensure that everyone stays safe, and I would like to reiterate my thanks for the public’s patience and understanding.”