Maldon Police and Dengie farmers have been thanked for their help with suspected hare coursing activities in the Maldon district.

A Twitter post made yesterday evening (Wednesday, 20 January) by the Essex Police Rural Engagement Team reads: "Busy day today for the team, another suspected hare coursing vehicle off the road.

"Thanks to farmers on the Dengie and @maldonlpt (the Maldon Police team) for their assistance."

The picture posted with the Tweet (above) shows a vehicle being taken away by officers.

The news comes just days after the Essex Police Rural Engagement Team asked residents of rural areas to keep a lookout for poaching activities during lockdown.

PC Neil Fenn, of the Essex Police Rural Engagement Team, said: "We are determined to keep wildlife in our county safe.

"That's why we are appealing to the rural communities in Essex to stay vigilant – especially during the darker evenings which come with British winter.

"Poachers tend to work at night because darkness is their friend but there are tell-tale signs to look out for such as cars being parked in rural locations where you wouldn't expect them to be or people dressed in camouflage.

"We need people to understand this is illegal and if you see it you should report it on 101 or, in an emergency, 999."