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.

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