Wiltshire Air Ambulance targeted in laser attack

The emergency helicopter was attempting to land in Trowbridge last night when a laser was flashed at it from the ground.

The laser was directed from the south west area of the town.

On social media, the charity said:

"Not only do these attacks pose a danger to the crew they also prevent us from carrying out our life saving work as we will often have to abort the mission and leave the area when attacked like this as we did tonight."

Shining a laser at an aircraft is a criminal offence with an unlimited fine and up to 5 years imprisonment.

The Police are currently investigating the incident which happened during a training flight.

Wiltshire Search and Rescue is among those who have condemned the action.

The charity says "endangering the lives of those going to help others really is despicable."

Anyone with any information is urged to call Wiltshire Police on 101.

FOUR LASER ATTACKS THIS YEAR

The Wiltshire helicopter has been targeted by laser attackers a number of times this year.

In July, a light was shone at the aircraft as it flew over Corsham when it was returning to its base in Semington.

There were also two incidents in Chippenham including one in February, where pilots were forced to abort the landing when the helicopter was targeted during a training flight.