LAST night's crash involving a Hawk fighter aircraft from RAF Leeming will no doubt reopen the debate about air force training exercises.

Thankfully both the pilot and the navigator ejected safely. They will now give evidence to an RAF Board of Enquiry.

But the investigation will not deal with the wider impact of pilot training exercises, particularly those involving low flying, on the residents below.

This has been a contentious issue for more years than most North Yorkshire residents can remember. The region is dotted with air bases, including the frontline fighter base at Leeming, and the training base at Linton-on-Ouse. Our countryside is not only beautiful, it provides the perfect terrain for pilots to learn and practise their skills.

Unfortunately, no one has yet invented the silent aircraft. These exercises do disturb the peace, from the whine of Linton's Tucanos to the roar of Leeming's Hawk jets.

For those on the ground it can be irritating, even infuriating. Farmers and horse riders know that these flights can frighten livestock into bolting.

But this is a price we must pay for a world class fighting force.

RAF aircrew have pledged to defend Britain, whatever the cost. Many have given their lives to that cause.

We must repay that commitment by ensuring pilots receive the best possible training. Those who are prepared to die for their country deserve nothing less.

Modern warfare is largely conducted in the skies, as the Gulf and Balkans conflicts demonstrated. To stand a decent chance of surviving these supersonic battles, pilots need to have undergone rigorous preparations. Time in a flight simulator is not enough; hours in the air count.

The RAF has worked hard over the years to improve relations with their neighbours. Bases employ community relations officers to work with those affected by low flying.

Residents on the ground must reciprocate. It is true that flying exercises can occasionally breach the peace; but without them we might not have any peace to enjoy.