A POLICE helicopter was launched above Hampshire in a joint force crackdown on rural crime.

Officers from Hampshire and Thames Valley have joined forces to tackle rural crime.

A helicopter was launched over Hartley Wintney as part of a police chase when a driver suspected to be involved in crime failed to stop

The car was later found near Sandhurst and will be forensically examined.

Any witnesses or drivers with dash cam who may have seen suspicious activity involving a Toyota Rav 4 in Lower Church Road, Sandhurst at around 10pm on November 13, are urged to call police on 101.

It was part of a two day operation last week to combat offending on the Hampshire and Thames Valley boarders.

Officers also arrested a 24-year-old man from Hounslow on suspicion of driving whilst impaired through drink or drugs.

He was later released under investigation to await the results of toxicology tests.

Hart District Neighbourhood Sergeant Martyn Evans said: “These regular nights of action are run between Hampshire and Thames Valley Police - using an intelligence led approach. We will use whatever tactics are required to disrupt and detect their criminality.

“I would like to assure residents and landowners that we take rural crime extremely seriously. We are conducting patrols in rural areas but we would urge anyone to ensure as far as possible to secure and alarm their buildings and property mark their equipment. Consider installing CCTV, tracker devices, automatic security lights and intruder alarm systems.

“Rural crime is a priority for us and we will continue to relentlessly pursue suspects. The community are our eyes and ears and we encourage you to report all incidents as soon as you are able to by calling 101 if it’s not an emergency. If it’s happening there and then, always call 999."

You can also report suspicious activity online (if it’s not an emergency) by visiting our website www.hampshire.police.uk or clicking on this link: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/report/.

You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.