A Royal Navy helicopter pilot who grew up in Farnborough is starring in a new TV series about search and rescue in the Scottish Highlands.

Lieutenant Commander Andrew ‘Tank’ Murray, who was raised in Farnborough, can be seen in Highland Emergency, a 30-episode series which began on Tuesday, August 5.

The TV programmes will focus on a number of different rescue organisations working the rugged and dangerous terrain of the Scottish Highlands.

A former Wavell Secondary School pupil, Lt Commander Murray is currently a training officer at HMS Gannet at Prestwick in Ayrshire.

He said: “As the Flight Training Officer I am a qualified helicopter instructor, night vision goggle instructor and instrument rating instructor.

“It is my role to ensure that all squadron aircrew, especially the pilots, are in date for mandatory checks, remain competent in all the required flying roles and maintain the highest standards of flying skills and airmanship that are required of aircrew in the Fleet Air Arm.”

The men and women who make up HMS Gannet provide 24/7 civilian and military search and rescue cover within their area, often flying in extreme conditions above dangerous terrain.

Lt Commander Murray added: “I believe this series will give a great insight for members of the public to see the work we undertake.

“It will highlight some of the dangers involved in certain recreational activities if correct safety precautions are not followed or that accidents do happen regardless of the planning involved.”

The helicopter man now lives in Helston in Cornwall with his wife Tania and their two children George and Thomas, though he and his family find plenty of time to visit his mother Joan Murray, who still lives in Farnborough.