The Ministry of Defence has revealed why a number of military helicopters have been flying low over Bristol this week.
The Chinook helicopters were spotted by residents across the city on both Monday and Tuesday, prompting much online speculation as to why they had been called out.
One Twitter user said he saw 'loads of military helicopters flying over Bristol' on Tuesday (March 31).
"A couple of Chinook's and a few other smaller ones been going back and forth," he said.
A second Bristol resident added: "A couple of fat army helicopters flying low and rattling the walls. Apocalyptic times."
Another witness said on Monday evening (March 30) the Chinooks were 'flying so low over Knowle with no lights on'.
During the same evening, Bristol photographer Jess Siggers tweeted: "Oooh super-low army helicopter, rattled the windows.
"Most excitement I’ve had in weeks."
The Ministry of Defence has now confirmed the Chinooks were carrying out routine training in the area.
A spokeswoman for the MoD told Bristol Live : "The Chinooks from RAF Odiham were conducting routine pre deployment training in the Bristol area."
Earlier this year, Avon and Somerset Police said the force takes part in training with the Royal Air Forces to help officers' professional development.
It went on to tell residents 'don't be alarmed' if they see military helicopters landing and taking off in the force area.
