More than £1,000 of damage caused as police receive seven reports of hare coursing in Spalding area over weekend

More than £1,000 worth of damage was caused by suspected hare coursers this weekend.

Lincolnshire Police put a 48-hour dispersal order in place following reports made by the public.

In total, six further incidents of coursing - all in our local area - were reported over the weekend, along with damage to crops.

A Lincolnshire Police statement read: “This incident was reported to us at 11.24am on November 5, just before a dispersal order was put in place in the Boston and South Holland, and North and South Kesteven areas following increased reports of hare coursing.

“The dispersal order was put in place at 11.55am on November 5, for 48 hours.

“Should we see an increase in hare coursing we will look to impose another dispersal order.

“Our Force Control Room received the report that an unknown 4x4 vehicle, believed to be driven by hare coursers, had driven through a field causing around £1,000 worth of damage to crops.

“We are investigating this incident and we would like to hear from anyone who may be able to assist with our investigation. Incident 172 of 5 November refers.”

The further reports were reported on November 5 and 6 in Langary Gate, Holbeach St Johns, the Eaugate Road area of Moulton, West Pinchbeck, The Common, Crowland, and Gedney.

Superintendent Lee Pache said: “We continue to investigate and respond to reports of hare coursing across our county.

“Offenders are often linked to organised crime groups and are known to commit a wide range of criminal offences against the community as a whole, as well as placing officers and the public at risk when failing to stop for police.

“We will investigate any criminal activity reported to us and we thank the public for their support in reporting crimes.”

Police have urged the public to be vigilant if they spot any potential hare coursers or anyone acting suspiciously in rural areas as well as the more built up areas.

To report a crime call 101, or call 999 to report a crime in action.