London's police force has deployed 17 staff to the British Virgin Islands to assist with maintaining general law and order after Hurricane Irma ripped through the region.

On Saturday (September 9), the team - one inspector, two sergeants and 14 constables - boarded a military flight from Brize Norton to Barbados.

From there, they will be deployed to provide support to the British Virgin Islands Police Force.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry of the Metropolitan Police said: "Our thoughts at this terrible time are with all the families in the Caribbean who have lost loved ones or whose lives have been decimated by this disaster.

"The team, who have all volunteered to assist at this tragic time will be providing support to their colleagues and will help to reassure local people.

"Following a request made through the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for assistance with humanitarian aid the Met immediately responded to assist the UK policing response led by the National Police Chief’s Council."

He continued: "The officers, who work in a variety of roles across the Met, will be sworn in as Special Constabulary which allows them to perform and have the same legal powers as their colleagues.

Relief efforts are under way on islands devastated by Hurricane Irma, with one British territory being "pummelled" overnight and another declaring a state of emergency.

"The officers will be deployed under the management of the British Virgin Islands Police, but the Met will remain in constant contact with officers to provide them with 24 hour welfare support should they need it.

Alpha Company, 40 Commando Royal Marines, utilizing the new RAF A400M to fly into the British Virgin Islands

"The initial number of officers deployed and the length of their deployment will be kept under review.

"I know that this will be an arduous and difficult deployment for our officers and am proud that so many officers have offered their assistance so enthusiastically - this speaks volumes for the dedication of those working in the Metropolitan Police and across the country."

Keep up to date with the latest news in west London via the free getwestlondon app.

You can set up your app to see all the latest news and events from your area, plus receive push notifications for breaking news.

Available to download from the App Store or Google Play for Android .