AN independent probe has been launched into police action following a helicopter crash in which a Vale teenager died.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is conducting the investigation into Avon & Somerset in the aftermath of the crash, which happened on January 22. Gloucestershire Constabulary is also involved in the probe.

James Tartaglia, aged 15, of South Littleton, died in the crash, which happened in Somerset woodland.

All four occupants of the privately-owned Jetranger 206B helicopter, including James' father, Allan, who lived in Gloucestershire, were pronounced dead at the scene.

An IPCC spokeswoman said: "The matter has been referred to the IPCC, which is currently carrying out an independent investigation."

Any findings from the investigation will not be made public until the inquest into the deaths, which is not likely to take place for some months.

Richard Davies, officer for West Somerset coroner Michael Rose, said: "We are not able to schedule a date for the inquest until we receive a medical report and a full Air Traffic Investigation Board report, which we have not got yet."

The crash is believed to have happened as the helicopter was returning to Gloucester's Staverton airport following a trip to Torbay.

Immediately after the crash Avon & Somerset police began an internal investigation following suggestions they failed to act for five hours after the crash.