Residents are being urged to be on the look-out for people engaging in a cruel blood sport.

Hare coursing - which involves greyhounds being set upon hares - was made illegal in 2005, but there are still incidents of it happening in more rural spots.

The RSPCA is warning they believe it is still happening in the area.

It has previously been reported in Helions Bumpstead.

A spokesman for the RSPCA said: "Hare coursing is truly horrific in terms of animal welfare.

"It involves greyhounds being set upon hares for a so-called 'sport' - leading to long and torturous deaths as dogs wrestle each other for the small animals and tear them apart gradually.

"Our inspectors, many well used to seeing animal cruelty first hand, have often described the footage they have seen of this barbaric custom as bloodcurdling and the sound the hare makes as it is being torn apart as heart wrenching.

"The RSPCA was extremely relieved when it was made illegal to treat wildlife in this barbaric and bloodthirsty way."

People should watch out for large groups of vehicles parked by in rural areas.

The vehicles will usually be estate cars, four wheel drives or vans and they may contain evidence of dogs inside.

Those taking part can become aggressive if approached so people are advised to call 101 and film any activity if it is safe to do so.