STAFF at an RAF base near Basingstoke have issued a warning after a person came "dangerously close" to an aircraft.

Staff from the RAF Odiham base have taken to Facebook to issue the safety warning after the person attempted to retrieve a personal item but ended up coming close to an aircraft.

They posted: "Being in close proximity to Chinooks operating in confined areas places you and the crews at increased risk from downwash-related incidents.

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"Recently an individual came dangerously close to an aircraft whilst attempting to retrieve a personal item that had been dislodged by downwash.

"These situations can hamper our operational training objectives, as the crews are reluctant to take off if bystanders are at risk for downwash debris.

"Please be safe when observing our aircraft out and about, and always remain a safe distance away from the landing zone."