Flying high above London the crews of Metropolitan Police helicopters get a unique view of the city on a daily basis.

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And now, images of the city photographed by on board police officers, have proven to be a hit on Twitter and helped to take the @MPSinthesky Twitter account to nearly 50,000 followers.

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The Metropolitan Police helicopter unit currently operates three Eurocopter EC145 helicopters on a 24-hour basis flying an average of over 275 hours per month, assisting officers on the ground with suspect searches, aerial observation, photographic tasks and vehicle pursuits.

The helicopters are also involved in counter terrorism operations as well as helping to locate missing persons and responding to firearms incidents.

The @MPSinthesky Twitter account has grown to 46k followers since it was set up in January 2012 developing a unique style and approach and directly communicating with the public.