AS we look back on the Novichok poisonings three years ago, police officers have today highlighted the anniversary and paid tribute to the community and its "resilient spirit".

After what has been described as a "challenging couple of years", Wiltshire Police says the force's practices, response to major incidents and relationships with partner agencies has "never been stronger".

Reflecting on the tragic events of 2018 however, Wiltshire Police has paid tribute to not only the community, but the Salisbury and Amesbury residents who were the most affected.

Here is the force's statement in full:

"As we mark the third anniversary of the Novichok poisonings in 2018, our thoughts remain with all those affected by these incidents.

"In particular, the family and friends of Dawn Sturgess who tragically lost her life, Sergei and Yulia Skripal and former Wiltshire Police Detective Sergeant Nick Bailey.

"Despite the passage of time, the impacts of the events are undoubtedly still felt by many within our communities.

"Following the attacks in Salisbury and Amesbury, the local resilience partnership continue to work together to prepare for the way in which we respond to major incidents.

"Our practices through this forum have been well tested over the challenging last couple of years we have had in the county – including our multi-agency response to the COVID pandemic - and our relationships and procedures, as partner agencies, have never been stronger.

"Finally, we would like to pay tribute to the resilience and community spirit demonstrated by those living and working in Salisbury and Amesbury."

READ MORE:

Three years on: Salisbury will recover from Novichok and Covid-19 ‘double whammy’

PM vows to 'continue to seek justice' for victims of Novichok poisonings

What experts remember as the worst moments of Novichok poisonings

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