CLA South West has issued advice for landowners and farmers who suffer from hare coursing incidents, rife in the region at this time of year.

Hare coursing, where dogs compete against each other in pursuit of a hare, was outlawed by the 2004 Hunting Act but now takes place illegally, without the permission of landowners and farmers.

Criminal gangs bet on the killing of the hares with dogs, and the season for the sport begins after fields have been harvested.

It has been reported that the crime involves live streaming to another location where bets worth thousands of pounds are placed on the outcome.

Following thousands of incidents of hare coursing every year, the CLA has in the past called for tailored sentencing guidelines such as the seizure of vehicles and dogs, and tougher sentencing for perpetrators. This year they are issuing advice on how to safely report the crime and, in partnership with the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit, have created signs encouraging people to report this illegal activity.

CLA South West director Ann Maidment said: “Fines imposed for illegal hare coursing under the Hunting Act are unlimited, yet too often they amount to just a few hundred pounds.

“This is not an effective deterrent for a lucrative crime perpetrated by criminal gangs. The police are able to seize vehicles and dogs – both of which would have a direct impact on hare coursers.

“Police forces have the power to tackle these criminals but they need evidence to catch perpetrators and bring them to justice.

“This is why we encourage people to record and report any suspicious activity to the police. This can be done by dialling 999 if the crime is in action or 101 to speak to your local police force or by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

An anonymous farmer from Wiltshire said: "Hare coursing is an illegal activity - the criminals who take part in it do untold damage to property and crops and often threaten landowners with violence if they are apprehended.

“Incidents of hare coursing are often linked to other criminal activities such as theft and the only way to stop these criminals is to report any suspicious activity taking place on private land to the police".

Top Tips - what to do if you see hare coursing taking place

1. Do not approach hare coursers.

2. Report any suspicious activity in the countryside to the police on 101.

3. Call 999 if you suspect a crime is actually taking place.

When telephoning the police, callers should be prepared to give an accurate description of what is happening. This could include descriptions of the people, their vehicles and dogs, especially if it is lurcher type dogs, which are commonly used to chase down hares.

It is crucial for callers to not just record the registration number, but also the make, model, any damage or identifying features on a vehicle, as number plates are often changed before suspects commit offences.

Land managers and farmers interested in obtaining the signs available should contact CLA South West on telephone 01249 700200, or by emailing southwest@cla.org.uk