SIX Merlin helicopters left RAF Benson yesterday and headed to a naval air base in Somerset.

The move was part of an ongoing transition, as the RAF hands over the Merlin HC Mk3 and Mk3A helicopters to the Royal Navy, with 78 Squadron formally disbanded.

The ceremony also featured the ‘standing up’ of 846 Naval Air Squadron of the Commando Helicopter Force, at the base near Wallingford.

RAF Benson spokeswoman Nikki Hamilton said: “Six Merlin HC Mk3 helicopters left the base at about 11am to move to Royal Air Station Yeovilton in Somerset.

“Some Merlin helicopters remain on the base and the six leaving yesterday was part of an ongoing transition process that will continue over the next 12 months.

“To put it simply 846 Naval Air Squadron is taking its helicopters home.”

At a ceremony in September Station Commander and Merlin Force Commander Nigel Colman led the official handover to Captain Niall Griffin, Commanding Officer of Commando Helicopter Force and there was a ceremonial parade with Royal Reviewing Officers.

Prince Michael of Kent also took part in the parade.

There are about 4,000 personnel based at RAF Benson which has close links with Wallingford.

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