Here's why a Royal Navy helicopter was circling over Chichester earlier

Here's why a Royal Navy helicopter was spotted flying over Chichester earlier today (Thursday, September 17).
By Joe Stack
Published 17th Sep 2020, 15:33 BST
Updated 17th Sep 2020, 16:10 BST
Picture courtesy of Dr Ian FrielPicture courtesy of Dr Ian Friel
Picture courtesy of Dr Ian Friel

The Royal Navy Merlin helicopter was heard over the eastern part of the city from about 11.30am.

It was seen circling part of the city before flying off again.

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Speaking to the Observer, a spokesman for the Ministry of Defence confirmed that the military vehicle was on a training exercise from the 65,000 tonne HMS Queen Elizabeth which is currently in Portsmouth.

Ahead of the ship's departure tomorrow, military personnel flew the helicopter near the Isle of Wight before taking the training inland over Chichester.

Related topics:Royal NavyHMS Queen ElizabethObserverPortsmouthIsle of Wight