Police helicopter takes to skies

The new EC135 helicopter will cover the north-east of England

A second helicopter is taking to the skies above the north-east of England to support three police forces.

The Northumbria, Durham and Cleveland forces have replaced their Islander plane with a new £3.7m helicopter.

The aircraft, which was being launched on Monday, will be part of the North East Air Support Unit (NEASU).

It is a more modern version of the existing EC 135 Eurocopter, which has now flown more than 6,900 hours, and is a world leader for the aircraft type.

NEASU is made up of 20 Pcs and two sergeants from the three forces, who act as observers, and 10 contracted pilots.

The unit provides assistance for searches, carries out surveillance of major incidents, takes aerial photographs and video footage and can also transport specialist units or casualties in need of urgent medical help.

'More versatile'

Between its launch in January 1996 and March 2005, NEASU was involved in the arrest of 7,500 suspects and helped in the recovery of property valued at £6.75million.

The Islander aircraft had come under criticism in the past about the level of noise it makes when flying above houses, particularly during the night.

The North East Air Support Unit has invested in exhaust silencers and redesigning the propellers, to reduce noise levels.

Northumbria Police Chief Constable Mike Craik said: "The plane provided a very good service, but the helicopter is more flexible and versatile and, because of more modern technology, will provide an even better service.

"The helicopter obviously has advantages over the plane in that it can take off and land almost anywhere."