Picture: Mike Huskisson

A police operation to clamp down on illegal hunting, hare coursing and poaching has been launched in the Maidstone area.

Although hare coursing and hunting with dogs was banned by the Hunting Act 2004, police say the activities are still taking place, with hundreds of pounds changing hands as people bet on which dogs would be the first to catch a hare.

Sergeant Matthew Chapman from the Neighbourhood Team said: "Hare coursing tends to start this time of year when the crops have been harvested.

"The people involved in this so-called sport can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to newly planted crops. Hares are often left with broken legs or backs and last year three dogs were abandoned in fields by their owners."

The operation will also target poachers who, by stealing pheasants and other game birds from organised shoots, also prove costly to landowners.

Police say officers will be working with both farmers and gamekeepers to build intelligence about offenders. They are also asking the public to be their "eyes and ears" to report any coursing or poaching.

Sgt Chapman said the Hunting Act 2004 made it an offence to hunt any wild mammal with dogs, and also completely bans hare coursing.

He added: "There are a few tightly-drawn exemptions to allow essential activities, such as pest control to continue, but these are still subject to strict conditions. I warn any individuals found to be engaged in this activity that they can be arrested and prosecuted. The hunting of wild mammals with dogs is not acceptable and we are committed to catching offenders who take part in this type of crime and bringing them to justice.”

Anyone with information about rural crime should contact the Maidstone Rural Neighbourhood Team on 01622 604392.