IN the fields of the Maldon district the crops are being harvested and the illegal sport of hare coursing is at its height.

Now Essex Police hopes the community will continue to help in the fight against a cruel crime that harms wildlife, damages young crops and land and sees dogs badly treated.

In the past two weeks, Essex Police's rural engagement team has had 32 reports of hare coursing across the county. They have seized vehicles and helped rehome the mistreated dogs used to chase hares.

PC Matt Harkness, from the rural engagement team, said: "It not only affects the landowners, but the bigger picture includes incidents of vandalism of property, theft of farm plant and road traffic offences."

The community has helped police reduce hare coursing

PC Harkness added: "Overall we've seen a 17 per cent reduction in hare coursing reports over the last year and we are working to keep improving on this.

"We are working closely with the local rural and farming communities to combat this issue.

I'm pleased to say that the information we receive really has helped the team, and I'd asked you to please continue to assist us and combat this illegal activity.

"We would ask that if you see coursing in progress, dogs chasing hares, or people breaking into land to course, then please call 999 immediately, giving as much detail as possible as to what you are witnessing."

Anyone who sees hare coursing should try to remember vehicle details, descriptions of those responsible if possible and the location of where the incident is happening. If the report is second hand or a few hours old, police would still like to know about it.

Anyone with information about hare coursing that has already taken place should report it by visiting the Essex Police website.