Low-flying helicopters over Newark carrying out essential inspections for National Grid network

Low-flying helicopters have been reported over Newark as essential work is carried out.

Over the last week National Grid has been carrying a routine inspection of its extra-high voltage network (33kV and 132kV).

It uses aircraft which operate between 35 ft and 100 ft above ground level, much lower than most other aircraft, to carry out the work.

The helicopters are painted in bright yellow and black, but despite their similarity in colour to air ambulances, are printed with the word electricity on both sides.

Aside from the inspections in the area, the National Grid’s Community Matters Fund is open for green spaces projects — with a share of the money available for the region.

It is offering up to £10,000 for charities and £2,000 for unregistered groups, with applications open until May 12.

A total of £500k will be shared across the Midlands, South West and South Wales.

The type of projects eligible include planting spaces, allotments, bee banks, bird and bat boxes, wildflowers, ponds, trees, hedges, development of unused land into green spaces, gardening workshops and activities to bring vulnerable people into green spaces, access pathways, ramps and seating in parkland or nature reserves.

Redevelopment of existing green spaces, forest school education sessions and workshops in nature and innovative approaches to create or develop green spaces are also eligible.