Two men have been charged with hare coursing offences in Aberdeenshire.

The alleged incidents are said to have happened between June 16 and 18 in Rothienorman and Turriff.

The men, aged 30 and 23, have also been charged with various road traffic offences.

A report will be made to the procurator fiscal and they will appear at court at a later date.

Constable Graham Crawford said: "Hare coursing is a cruel activity which is not acceptable. We will fully investigate any reports that we receive and extend our thanks to members of the public who have assisted us.

"We continue to urge people to get in touch with us with any concerns they may have. We can be contacted on 101 or alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 to remain anonymous."

Hare coursing involves greyhounds and other sighthounds pursing the hare by sight as opposed to scent. It is regarded as a blood sport in the UK.