Police have received 11 reports of coursers operating in Norfolk this week.

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk Police are cracking down on hare coursing. Picture: Ian BurtNorfolk Police are cracking down on hare coursing. Picture: Ian Burt

Most have been in the west of the county, with incidents logged in Barton Bendish, Burston, Docking, East Winch ,Foxley, Gayton, Kenninghall, Sporle, Syderstone, Upwell and Welney.

Officers say coursers now operate in small groups in a rural crime briefing.

'We now find that it might only be a couple of people with dogs, who then release their dogs to give chase,' it says. 'The types of dog commonly used are lurchers. Coursing is more likely to take place at dawn or dusk but it can also take place in broad daylight.'

Signs of illegal bloodsports taking place include vehicles parked in gateways, grass verges, farm tracks or bridle paths.

Police say anyone who sees coursing in progress should not approach the participants and call 999.

The briefing adds: 'If possible record as much information as you can such as vehicle registrations, makes models and colours. Description and number of people and dogs and whether they have been seen in fields.'

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