POLICE were called to reports and concerns about potential illegal hunting in Dorset.

Officers from North Dorset Police attended the scene in Ibberton on Wednesday, December 9.

A spokesperson for the team said that there were no coronavirus breaches.

"After calls in relation to illegal hunting, team members went out to Ibberton to ensure all acted within law and only a set trail was followed.

"No Covid breaches, some advice and reassurance to all."

Last month, police received reports of a fox being illegally hunted by hounds.

Dorset Police issued a witness appeal in relation to this incident on November 3 in the area of Hinton St Mary, close to Sturminster Newton.

The government provides the following guidance on fox hunting: "It’s illegal to hunt foxes with a pack of dogs. You can use dogs to simulate hunting, for example ‘drag’ or ‘trail’ hunting.

"You can use up to two dogs to chase (‘flush’ or ‘stalk’) foxes out of hiding if the fox is causing damage to your property or the environment.

"Your dogs can’t go underground to find the foxes unless they’re threatening wild or game birds kept for shooting - only one dog can go underground at any time.

"You must shoot the fox quickly after it’s been found, carry proof you own the land you’re shooting on or written permission from the landowner.

"You can be fined, and your dogs or hunting equipment taken away, if you break the law.

"There are other ways you can control foxes if they’re causing damage to your property or the environment."