Police helicopter aids officers

The helicopter is available to both forces seven days a week

A dedicated police helicopter for Kent and Medway was used for 25 hours in its first month, police have revealed.

Since its introduction under collaboration plans with Essex Police, it has been available to both forces up to 20 hours a day, seven days a week.

One of its first jobs was in Halsted searching for burglary suspects, and it supported officers at a football match in Gillingham, where arrests were made.

The crew also gathered photographic evidence of cannabis plants in Ashford.

Kent Police also said six people were arrested at the end of April when it directed officers on the ground to illegal hare coursing.

Ann Barnes, Chair of the Kent Police Authority, said she was pleased the helicopter was already having a "positive impact on policing".

"This extra tool will play a significant role in the forthcoming years and will bring big benefits to taxpayers either side of the river."