Kent Police have confirmed they will start using unmanned arial drones following a two year trial. 

Police started using drones in 2015 on a trial basis but will be adding them permenantly from this week.

It is hoped the units will be able to help officers locate missing people.

They will also be used at some crime scenes and at road traffic collisions to provide officers with an understanding of the terrain.

Superintendent Mat Newton said: "It is clear the use of drones in approved circumstances can improve the ability of officers to find missing people or get a better view of the scene of an incident.

"They will not replace police helicopters but can be used by officers during the early stages of an incident when a helicopter is not immediately available or their use is impractical.

‘We have also given great consideration to the safety aspects of using drones as well as their operational capabilities and we firmly believe they will help us in delivering a first class service to the people of Kent."