A RINGWOOD man who recklessly dazzled a police helicopter with a laser pen has been fined.

Angus Beezer Martin, 21, of Gorley Road, pleaded guilty to the offence, which happened on August 4 near his home.

Magistrates in Southampton fined him £140 plus a £20 victim surcharge and costs of £85.

They ordered the laser pen to be forfeited and destroyed.

This year Hampshire Police say they've seen an increasing number of incidents involving laser pens.

In addition a haul of 107 lasers with dangerously high power levels were recovered at an address in Eastleigh – one was 650 times more powerful than expected.

And many of these lasers could cause blindness. On September 9, the National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter was on its final approach to Southampton Airport for fuel when it was targeted by a powerful green laser.

Crew in the helicopter tracked the man and ground officers arrested him.

Four commercial passenger aircraft on the same approach path also reported a laser being used at the same location.

Fortunately these flights all landed safely.

Superintendent James Fulton said: “This activity is highly dangerous and irresponsible during any phase of flight, however during critical times such as landings at night, it is especially dangerous.

“We are committed to investigating all reports of this type alongside our colleagues from the National Police Air Service, and will take appropriate action as part of our enquiries.

“Incidents involving lasers being pointed at vehicles, such as planes or cars and people, are increasing nationally.

A large number of these incidents involve children, whose parents believe the lasers are a suitable toy.

“We are keen to stress to both adults and children that these items are dangerous and can lead to a significant fire risk. Lasers are not toys and could also lead to serious visual impairment for life if used in an inappropriate way.”

Other recent reports received by police include: n On Friday, July 18, a commercial flight reported a laser being used from a block of flats in the Eastleigh area at around 9.15pm. A 28-year-old man from Eastleigh was arrested and bailed until November 7, pending further enquiries.

n On Friday, August 8, at just after midnight, an aircraft reported a laser being used at the Boomtown Festival, although it did not appear to be part of the entertainment onsite.

n On Friday, August 8, at around 9.25pm a commercial flight reported a laser being used in Eastleigh. A 24-yearold man from Eastleigh was arrested and bailed until November 7, pending further enquiries.

n On Sunday, September 7, two commercial flights reported a laser being used in the Bitterne and Weston areas of Southampton.