WILTSHIRE Police has vowed to take action on a hare coursing competition that may be taking place in the county.

The Fir Cup, which is worth tens of thousands of pounds to the winner in breeding rights, might be going ahead later today.

Officers from the Rural Crime Team and the Police Drone Unit, who have been working together with farmers, gatekeepers and landowners to implement anti-poaching measures across the county under Project Artemis, have said they will not tolerate hare coursing of any kind. 

Superintendent Phil Staynings said: "Operation Artemis has always made clear hare coursing is not tolerated in Wiltshire. We continue to work closely with our local rural communities to share intelligence around this cruel sport and are fully committed to prosecuting those who break the law.

"Hare coursing is a barbaric sport committed by people with little respect for the animals they hunt, the dogs they use and is often closely linked to violence and intimidation. You are not welcome in Wiltshire."

Anyone with information should contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.