The Western Counties Air Support Unit is based at Filton Airport and is staffed by regular officers from Avon and Somerset Constabulary and Gloucestershire Constabulary.

The helicopter flies for an average 3 hours a day. The aircraft is used to search for missing people and to help tackle vehicle related crime, burglaries and public order situations. It can also be used for emergency casualty evacuations and has already been responsible for saving dozens of lives since it came into service.

The arrival of the helicopter made an immediate impact on crime. Almost overnight ram raids became a thing of the past as criminals quickly learned that once the "eye in the sky" was airborne there was nowhere to hide.

As well as thermal imaging equipment which can save hours and lives when looking for missing people - the helicopter is equipped with a downlink video system which relays instant pictures into control rooms.

To find out more about the police helicopter and what it's been doing in your area please visit the Western Counties Air Operation Unit website.