POLICE chiefs are to replace a noisy spotter plane after the constant drone left a pensioner cowering in a cupboard wearing earmuffs.

John Oxley, who suffers from tinnitus, a constant ringing in his ears, has told of his relief that the aircraft is to be replaced by a quieter helicopter.

Mr Oxley, 82, who lives at Ferndale Court, Brambles Farm, Middlesbrough, was contacted by Sergeant Phil Lee, of the North-East Air Support Unit, who apologised for the inconvenience caused by the plane and explained the good work it does in the fight against crime.

Doctors treating Mr Oxley's tinnitus - for which there is no cure - tried a number of measures to block out the noise of the plane, including giving him a music ball, which plays soothing sounds such as waves crashing against a sea wall, but none worked.

The helicopter has been ordered and will be ready for duty next year. It will be based at Durham Tees Valley Airport.

Mr Oxley said: "It's wonderful news for the people who live where I live. The noise from the plane is terrible and it was worse for me because of the tinnitus.

"I have all these things to help me cope with it, including the musical ball, but nothing is enough to beat that aeroplane."

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "From the recent best value inspection, it was recommended that we replace the aeroplane.

"The helicopter can get airborne quickly and can land at the scene of an incident to help officers on the ground as well as getting to more rural areas.

"There will be greater flexibility, improving on an already good service."