AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into reports of a fox being hunted by hounds in North Dorset.

Dorset Police received a report on Tuesday, November 3, that during the late morning and early afternoon an organised trail hunt took place in the area of Hinton St Mary, close to Sturminster Newton.

It is alleged that offences were committed against the Hunting Act 2004 and that a fox was pursued by hounds across the B3092 road between Sturminster Newton and Hinton St Mary.

Officers are appealing for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

North Dorset Inspector Simon Perry said: “We care carrying out enquiries in relation to this incident.

"As part of our investigation I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the relevant time and either witnessed something or captured anything of relevance on their dashcam to please contact Dorset Police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200165514. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.

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."