OPERATIONS are going ahead to tackle wildlife crime across Cumbria, police say.

Police said the poaching of game, fish and hare was recognised as a national problem, which has led to it being included within the six crime priorities set by government.

PC Helen Branthwaite, wildlife and environmental crime officer, said: “Poaching has strong links to other types of rural crime and the impact on our communities should not be underestimated.

“Police recognise these concerns and are working with a variety of organisations to tackle them.”

Deer are a common target and are often hunted with dogs or by using high-powered lamps, say police.

In December 2013, police were called to a report of a deer carcass found by a member of the public after hearing a gunshot close to his home.

As a result, in June this year a man was sentenced after being charged with being in possession of a loaded firearm in a public place. He was fined £1,000.