Queen's guards retreat behind security fences

A guardsman stands on duty outside Clarence House. Photo: Reuters

London:Royal guards have been moved from their traditional posts outside the England's palaces amid fears that Islamist fanatics may target them.

The instantly recognisable Queen's Guards have been withdrawn from their sentry boxes in front of Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, St James's Palace and Windsor Castle to positions behind locked gates or fences.

The decision was taken by Buckingham Palace and police due to fears that "lone wolf" attackers inspired by the Islamic State group might see them as a high-profile target.

Although the ceremonial guards carry rifles fitted with a bayonet, the firearms are not loaded.

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Armed police already provide additional security for the soldiers, after the murder of a soldier on ceremonial duty at Canada's national war memorial in a suspected terror attack in October and the killing of Drummer Lee Rigby outside Woolwich barracks last year.

Guards have also been told not to take sentry duty alone, for the first time since the height of the IRA threat.

Some former guards said the "retreat" in the face of terrorism was disappointing. Retired Major Iain Dalzel-Job of the Scots Guards said: "I think this is a big shame. The reason people know we're around is because they can see us. But I suppose the changes are necessary as there is a significant threat."

However, Terry O'Shea, a former Welsh Guardsman, said: "Moving the guardsmen back to a more secure area seems an honourable retreat given the danger posed by the terrorists.

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Queen's guards retreat behind security fences