Police plea for help in fight against poachers in Northumberland

Northumbria Police has asked people to be vigilant after reports from farmers across the county, raising concerns their land is being used by the thieves.

Dog walkers trespassing and worrying livestock during lambing season

Most recently, there was a report of people acting suspiciously with dogs in the Holeyn Hall Road area of Heddon on Monday, March 30.

Rural officers conducting enquiries are asking communities to report any suspected sightings and concerns to police.

Neighbourhood Inspector Pam Bridges said: “We encourage anyone with information about poachers or illegal hunting to contact police.

“We have strong relationships with our rural partners who regularly provide intelligence.

“This multi-agency working enables a strong and robust response to such crimes and is something we take extremely seriously.

“Reports of this nature at a time when strict stay-at-home rules are in place also gives further cause for concern.”

She added: “We have also had reports of dog walkers trespassing on private farmland and causing injury and stress to livestock which during lambing season can result in sheep miscarrying or needing to be put down due to injury.

“We ask that walkers be mindful of where they go and that they do not enter private land or farm areas that could impact on the livelihood of local residents.”

Anyone with any concerns or information is asked to contact police via the Northumbria Police website.