Police on the trail of illegal hare coursing in north-east Fife

North-east Fife police are appealing for witnesses following a spate of hare coursing incidents locally.

Five reports of dogs being used to chase and kill hares in Kippo, Dunino, the outskirts of St Andrews and Kingsbarns areas have been received since late November.

The public has reported seeing small groups of people with lurcher-type dogs and the wildlife crime unit is now investigating.

Wildlife and environmental crime coordinator Lindsay Kerr said hare coursing was classified as a bloodsport and tackling this “savage” practice was a national wildlife crime priority.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.