Farmers Concerned At Increase In Illegal Hare Coursing

An increase in illegal hare coursing in rural parts of the Harborough District is concerning farmers.

There have been recent incidents in Great Bowden, Hallaton, Slawston and Shearsby.

Those involved are causing damage by driving 4×4 vehicles through crops in fields, damaging hedges and smashing down gates.

Harriot Ranson is from the Leicestershire and Northamptonshire branch of the National Farmers Union:

Police patrols have been stepped up in hotspot areas and officers are urging anyone who sees people in fields with dogs chasing a hare to call them.

Rural police officer, Pc Steve Winn, based at Market Harborough Police Station, told Hfm, the issue causes major problems for farmers:,