NPAS Barton crew helps in festive reindeer rescue
The National Police Air Service (NPAS) Barton crew were called to assist Merseyside Police with a mission unlike any other – tracking down an escaped reindeer from the Formby area, 29th-30th November.
Image courtesy NPAS
The reindeer, spooked by a dog, had been on the run for hours, evading officers and veterinarians across challenging beach terrain. With public safety and animal welfare at stake, the NPAS crew deployed quickly to help.
Flying low over Formby beach, the team used the aircraft’s wailer system to guide the reindeer inland and illuminated the area to give vets the best chance to intervene.
Against strong winds and difficult conditions, they worked closely with Merseyside Police to shepherd the animal to a safe location where a veterinarian could sedate it.
Thanks to the crews skill and teamwork, the operation ended successfully.