South Yorkshire keeps 24-hour police helicopter cover in shake-up

By Gareth Dennison
Published 28th Mar 2013, 15:18 BST
Updated 2nd Jan 2017, 11:46 BST
POLICE helicopter coverage of Rotherham will be done from bases in West Yorkshire, Humberside and Derbyshire for 14 hours a day from tomorrow.

South Yorkshire Police is joining the National Police Air Service, a new body announced by the Home Office in April 2012.

South Yorkshire Police Authority said it would oppose proposals which would see a significant reduction in service here.

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As a result, the force’s helicopter will remain at its Sheffield base and be active during a ten-hour “peak” period, managed by NPAS staff.

A spokesman said: “The arrangement will see the county receive a more robust service, with the level of support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, being improved.”

Police commissioner Shaun Wright said: “We have fought to maintain air support based in South Yorkshire.

“I believe air support is a critical crime-fighting tool and will do my best to ensure it continues to deliver for the community.”