OPERATION Orchard, a police initiative aimed at stamping out illegal hare coursing and poaching on Kent's Romney Marsh has been re-launched.

Rural inspector Andrew Judd, of Weald police, said: "Last year's operation resulted in a number of offenders being stopped, searched and reported for offences.

"This year, again in conjunction with local Farm Watch, the operation will target persons who come to the area specifically to conduct illegal hare coursing and poaching."

The heightened police activity in the area last year also resulted in the number of thefts from vulnerable outbuildings being dramatically reduced, and the efforts were positively received by the farming community.