Police are appealing for witnesses and urging residents to be vigilant after a recent increase in incidents where people have been killing livestock and destroying fences, hedges and crops across South Oxfordshire.

At about 8.30pm last night, people gained access to private land on the Swyncombe Estate, Henley, and drove across farmland, damaging crops and killed some hares.

Sgt Keith Stacey, from the neighbourhood policing team, said: “These offenders have a total disregard for residents, landowners and their property and the safety of others and have been doing this throughout Thame, Wallingford and the rural areas around Henley.

“They cause damage to crops and livestock by driving recklessly through hedges or fences to chase animals like deer or hares.

“I would like to reassure residents that we will not tolerate this behaviour and are working hard to catch those responsible.

“The offenders are generally using 4x4 vehicles and could be using the Ridgeway to get access to the land, from the M40 to Benson.

“We have had a report that on one occasion the vehicle could have been a red Subaru Legacy, with the registration starting M105. If anyone recognises this vehicle then I would like to ask them to contact me.

“I urge anyone who might see any suspicious activity, or suspicious vehicles being driven across farmland or field to contact the police immediately.”

Anyone with any information should contact Sgt Keith Stacey at Henley police station via 0845 8 505 505, or if you don’t want to talk to the police or give your name, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.