Police used the special horse unit in carrying out an operation against illegal hare coursers in west Norfolk last weekend.

Eastern Daily Press: Hare coursing operation in west Norfolk: Police picturesHare coursing operation in west Norfolk: Police pictures (Image: Archant)

The intelligence-led event was conducted by Norfolk Constabulary's dedicated Rural Crime Team on a large west Norfolk farming estate.

The operation has been hailed a success as it showcased the police quad bike and the special constabulary horse unit.

The team disrupted a number of hare coursers and continue to work with the rural community to identify them.

Spokesman Sgt Mark Askham said: 'The foundations of our rural community are strong and the weekend's activity is an example of how Norfolk Constabulary has responded effectively to a type of rural criminality which will not be tolerated.'

Eastern Daily Press: Hare coursing operation in west Norfolk: Police picturesHare coursing operation in west Norfolk: Police pictures (Image: Archant)

Illegal hare coursing carries a maximum penalty of £5,000 and can have a severe impact on Norfolk's ecosystems.

A police spokesman added: 'Norfolk Constabulary is committed to working with farmers, gamekeepers and the wider rural community to tackle not only hare coursing but all rural, wildlife and heritage crime.'

If you would like to sign up to the Op Randall newsletter, detailing the hare coursing operation, use the below link and registering through the Police Connect website, https://www.norfolk.police.uk/services/police-connect

For further information from wildlife crime officers and to be kept up to date follow @RuralCrimeNfkon Twitter.