Cleveland farmer condemns hare coursing as a 'killing machine sport'

"Poachers do not come to catch game to take for the pot. It is a sport to them. It is a killing machine."

Chris Brayford
clock • 2 min read
Farmer Chris Thompson said hare coursing is a 'killing machine' (Cleveland Police)
Image:

Farmer Chris Thompson said hare coursing is a 'killing machine' (Cleveland Police)

A farmer has spoken about the troubles associated with hare coursing and how he has faced backlash from poachers at his farm. Cleveland based farmer Chris Thompson said he has lived on his farm for...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Rural crime

Historic nature reserve closed after numerous off-lead dog incidents

Historic nature reserve closed after numerous off-lead dog incidents

Dogs have bitten visitors, owners have been verbally abusive to staff when asked to put their dog on a lead, and dogs have worried livestock

Chris Brayford
clock 12 March 2026 • 4 min read
Scammers target farmers in £12k road repair rip-off

Scammers target farmers in £12k road repair rip-off

Police warn Essex farmers to beware after reports criminals are demanding cash and threatening violence in fake pot hold scam

clock 10 March 2026 • 2 min read
Farmers speak out about the cost of fly-tipping

Farmers speak out about the cost of fly-tipping

Why are the victims of fly-tipping the ones 'punished for the crime'?

clock 07 March 2026 • 2 min read