A man has been charged with shining a laser at a police helicopter.

Sussex Police were called to Southwick by the crew of the force helicopter at 6.30pm on Wednesday.

A Sussex Police spokesman said: “The green laser was pointed at the helicopter from a block of flats in Butts Road. As officers went to the scene the laser was again pointed at the helicopter crew.

“Two men from Southwick aged 36 and 27 were arrested on suspicion of endangering an aircraft.

“The 27-year-old was released without charge.”

Stephen Slark, 36, of Watling Court, Butts Road, Southwick, was charged with shining a light at an aircraft in flight so as to dazzle or distract the pilot. He was released on bail to appear at Worthing Magistrates' Court on April 1.