A new hi-tech vehicle will help police to reach emergencies in tricky terrain, including beaches, farms and rural woodland.

Eastern Daily Press: The new Police All-Terrain vehicle on the beach at Hunstanton. Picture: Ian BurtThe new Police All-Terrain vehicle on the beach at Hunstanton. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

It is the first time this type of all-terrain vehicle (ATV) will be used by Norfolk police to help search for missing people and to assist in emergencies.

The vehicle was unveiled by Norfolk police and crime commissioner Lorne Green at Hunstanton beach on Monday, July 24.

Mr Green said: 'I am over the moon.

'I have walked along this beach for 47 years and my children have grown up on this beach, so I know the importance.

Eastern Daily Press: The new Police All-Terrain vehicle on the beach at Hunstanton. Picture: Ian BurtThe new Police All-Terrain vehicle on the beach at Hunstanton. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

'I am proud that we have been able acquire this bit of kit, a 21st century technology for a 21st century force.

'While we want this summer to be one to remember for all the right reasons, there is always a possibility a child can get separated from their family.

'We hope the introduction of the ATV will help reassure families officers will be able to respond quickly to provide any assistance where needed.'

Although it has a maximum speed of 60mph, the ATV will be driven at 40mph and will mainly patrol Hunstanton beach.

Eastern Daily Press: The new Police All-Terrain vehicle on the beach at Hunstanton. Picture: Ian BurtThe new Police All-Terrain vehicle on the beach at Hunstanton. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

Western District Engagement Officer Emily Carter said the ATV will be useful for searching for missing children.

An estimated 15 to 20 children went missing during the summer period last year.

She said the vehicle could travel much more quickly and easily over the sand than the force's previous, heavier 4x4 vehicles. She added: 'It is much more visible than someone being on foot.'

Temporary Inspector John Bane added: 'This vehicle will enable us to respond quickly and effectively to incidents taking place on the beach.

'The vehicle has the potential to be deployed to other areas, such as woodland and farmland, to assist in other missing person enquiries or pre-planned operations, therefore enhancing our ability to respond to incidents in rural locations.'

A competition will be held for naming the vehicle to make it more visible to children.

Members can vote for their favourite name - Nelson, Rocky or Sunny - on the Norfolk Police website from Monday, July 24 until Monday, July 31 at 9am.