A former RAF helicopter has become the new guardian of the gates at Shoreham airport.

The machine replaces a Harrier GR3 fighter, which has been sold to Americans for restoration.

The Wessex helicopter, similar to those flown by the Duke of York during the Falklands campaign in 1982, was lifted into place by crane yesterday.

Built by Westland in 1964, it was first stationed at RAF Odiham, before serving in Germany.

It ended its career at RAF Benson, having logged 13,867 flying hours.

The helicopter was bought by the Transair Pilot Shop next to the southern gate at the airport.

Louise Davis, of Transair, said: "The Harrier was the guardian of the gates for two years.

"We had an offer from an aircraft restoration company in the United States to buy it from us.

"The chance to see the Harrier flying again was too good to turn down."