Police probe Boxing Day hare coursing incident at Thornton

Police in Fife are appealing to the public for information after a group of men were seen hare coursing in the Thornton area on Boxing Day.

Officers say two dogs were seen catching and killing a hare on farmland at around 4.15pm.

Three men were also spotted on foot with the dogs, and police are keen to trace them as soon as possible.

One was in his late thirties, 6ft and stocky with short blonde hair. He was wearing a light coloured sweatshirt and dark trousers.

The other two were in their twenties. Both were shorter than the older man and smaller in build with short dark hair.

One also had what police describe as “sharp” facial features and both were wearing dark clothing.

All three men had hoods and hats on.

The dogs were described as a brindle brown greyhound and a larger, tan greyhound.

Sergeant Chris Mutter, of Glenrothes Police Station, said: “Intentionally or recklessly allowing dogs to kill a wild hare is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and we take these incidents very seriously.

“The men were seen and heard shouting and whistling for their dogs off Balbeggie Avenue and Grantsmuir Road and were on foot.

“I am keen to speak to anyone who may have seen a group of men with dogs in this area yesterday afternoon, or anyone who recognises them from their descriptions.”

Anyone who thinks they can help the investigation should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident 2281 of December 26, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.