A BID is to be made to appoint an intelligence officer who would spearhead a crackdown on wildlife and environmental crime.

A business case supporting the creation of the post is being drawn up by chief inspectors Graham Rankin and Tim Wilson, of Durham Police.

The case will be submitted for consideration to the force's policy advisory group.

At present, seven officers working in headquarters at Aykley Heads, Durham City, and the six divisions of Durham Police, act on a part-time basis as wildlife liaison officers.

The divisional officers respond to a range of public concerns, among them badger-baiting and the collection of birds eggs.

But it is felt that the appointment of a full-time intelligence officer, based at headquarters, could not only support the work of the other officers, but also make an impact on other rural policing issues.

The specialist would be the link with the new National Wildlife Crime Unit, incorporated into the National Criminal Intelligence Service, in London.

"Those involved in wildlife and environmental crime have no respect for boundaries," said Chief Insp Rankin.

"After drugs and firearms, the illegal trade in endangered species is said to be one of the most lucrative areas of international trade.