RURAL residents across South Durham are being urged to help in the fight against poaching.

Police believe people living in quieter or more remote areas need to be more vigilant, not only concerning the security of their own property but also regarding the people roaming the countryside.

PC Julian Brown, one of Darlington police's rural bobbies, said the problem of people illegally walking on land with their dogs was a particular issue at this time of year.

As farmers are gathering crops such as hay, straw and wheat off their fields, creatures such as rabbits and hares are becoming more exposed, attracting poachers.

Sometimes respassers are 'casing' properties to steal goods such as quad bikes or trailers.

Police want the public to get in touch if they see any unfamiliar vehicles parked or people walking on land with dogs, acting suspiciously. Farmwatch schemes have been set up across the area, by which farmers exchange information about suspicious activity and crime among themselves and with police.

In some areas they have also been known to go on night-time patrols with officers to try to catch criminals in the act.

Anybody with information can contact police in Bishop Auckland on (01388) 603566.