A man has been arrested on suspicion of recklessly endangering the safety of an aircraft after a laser was shone at a police helicopter which was assisting a search for a missing person.

The incident happened yesterday (Wednesday) shortly before 11pm in the Teesville area.

Chief Inspector Jon Grainge said: “An incident of this nature could have easily proven really dangerous for the pilot and those inside the aircraft, who were assisting with the search for a missing person at the time. This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and we will look to prosecute anyone carrying out acts such as this which can put lives in danger.”

A 33-year-old man, from Eston, was arrested and he remains in police custody.