WEST Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin has agreed to extend the deadline to withdraw the region from the role as lead local policing body for the National Police Air Service (NPAS).

It comes following conversations with the NPAS National Strategic Board (NSB), the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC), the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and the Home Office.

The leading role carried out by West Yorkshire was due to cease on June 15.

However, the extension, to June 1, 2024, will give the Strategic Board of NPAS time to properly explore alternative hosting arrangements and transition the service to a new host.

Ms Brabin said: “I recognise the crucial importance of this service and the vital work it does.

“The National Police Air Service has a huge capability and is a complex organisation and a lot of work is ongoing to find an alternative solution.

“I am reassured that work is underway to consider alternative hosting options and recognise that adequate time must be afforded to this work to allow the Board to make an informed decision and ensure a smooth transition to the new arrangements.

“That work continues and that is why I believe the extension is necessary."