A spectral shape which has struck fear into the hearts of soldiers around the globe hovered over the North for the first time today.
An Apache helicopter flew into the Army Air Corps base at Dishforth to mark the departure of commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Ian Thomson.
But it won't be the last time the aircraft is seen in the area; North Yorkshire's 9 Regiment will be equipped with the advanced combat helicopter from August, 2003.
Lt Col Thomson was flown off the base for the last time in the back seat of a Hawk from nearby RAF Leeming, the Apache dropping its nose in salute as he passed.
"I have never flown in a fast jet before so it is a dream come true," he said. "As for the Apache, I know everyone here at Dishforth is eagerly awaiting its arrival."
Lt Col Thmson, who has been stationed at Dishforth for two and a half years, takes up a new post as Chief of Ground Air Liaison with the Allied Reaction Corps in Germany.
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