HARE coursing is illegal in this county, reminds Wiltshire Police.

With news of a potential hare coursing event to take place tomorrow (Friday, October 19), force specialist operations inspector Martyn Sweett reminds the public Wiltshire Police "will not tolerate hare coursing" under Operation Artemis, adding: "We take all reports of hare coursing in Wiltshire seriously."

Hare coursing is often linked with other crimes including damage, theft and intimidation.

Mr Sweett added: "As part of Operation Artemis, the force's response to poaching, our rural crime team continuously works with our local farmers, gamekeepers and landowners to implement anti-poaching measures across the county.

"These include extensive anti-poaching ditching to prevent vehicle access, securing access to land and putting measures in place to make life difficult for any potential poachers."

If anyone wishes to report a hare coursing event in progress contact the police on 999 quoting Operation Artemis.

If anyone has any information about upcoming hare coursing events, contact the police on 101 again quoting Operation Artemis, or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.