A car was abandoned following reports of illegal hare hunting to police in Wiltshire.

A 999 call was made to police on the afternoon of September 24 after a blue four-by-four was allegedly seen hare coursing near Avebury Trusloe.

The car was reported to be causing damage while carrying out the illegal activity, which involves chasing, catching, and killing hares with dogs.

But when Wiltshire Police officers and dog handlers attended the area to search for the car, it was found abandoned with no occupants on board.

A spokesperson said: “The individuals involved were described as four white males including a bald headed older male and a young male. (Image: Wiltshire Police)

“They had an unconfirmed number of dogs with them.

“If you were in the Avebury Trusloe area this afternoon and witnessed any vehicles or individuals matching this description acting suspiciously, please call 101 quoting 54240112367. 

“The team will continue to make enquiries to identify the individual(s) involved in the alleged incident.”

Hare coursing was identified as one of the priorities for Wiltshire Police, and they are part of a national crackdown called Operation Galileo countering the activity.