Lancashire's police helicopter plays "an invaluable role" in creating safer communiities according to the new officer in charge of the county's Air Support Unit.

Inspector Andrew Moore, has taken over as the head of the unit with responsibility for ensuring top technology is used to drive down crime.

Based at BAE Systems, Warton, Insp Moore has experience as an operational police officer.

Hovering up to 1000ft above the ground may seem far removed from the idea of neighbourhood policing, but Insp Moore believes the helicopter plays a key part in building safer communities.

He said: "The force helicopter is invaluable. It saves hundreds of staff hours when vast areas need to be searched and has the advantage of being able to fly anywhere in the county within 15 minutes."

The unit assists in a range of incidents, such as road collisions, assisting in pursuits, public disorder and firearms incidents.