Three men have been charged in connection with hare coursing after being accused of allowing dogs to chase the animals in a field.

Thames Valley Police charged the offenders today following the incident which occurred in the Letcombe Bassett area - near Wantage - at around 4.50pm yesterday.

The dogs also circled a flock of sheep, of which one was later found dead in the field.

The offenders then drove at speed through farmer’s fields in a 4x4 vehicle before leaving.

READ MORE: Oxford professor cleared of 'Islamophobia' still fearful of attacks

Denny Loveridge, 42, of Mill Place, Datchet, Mark Loveridge, 42, of Milton Close, Horton, Berkshire, and Jack Beldom, 22, of Montrose Way, Datchet, were all charged with one count each of daytime trespass in pursuit of game, being in charge of a dog worrying livestock and trespass with intent to search for or to pursue hares with dogs.

Denny Loveridge was also charged with one count of using a motor vehicle on a road without third party insurance.

Denny Loveridge, Mark Loveridge and Beldom were released on conditional bail and are due to appear at Oxford Magistrates’ Court on 21 March.