REWARDS of up to £1,000 are being offered for information leading directly to convictions for illegal hunting.

The League Against Cruel Sports is offering these rewards following evidence they provided leading to criminal proceedings against members of two hunt groups.

In certain circumstances the charity will now offer a reward of up to £1,000 for information which directly leads to a conviction under the Hunting Act 2004 in England and Wales, or the Protection of Wild Mammals Act 2002, in Scotland.

Chief executive Joe Duckworth said: “Polling shows that the public are overwhelmingly opposed to cruelty to animals in the name of sport and they support the Hunting Act which came into force 10 years ago.

“Based on our evidence, nine summonses have been issued this year alone under the Hunting Act and we are now giving members of the public a chance to play their part in helping to end that cruelty.”

Members of the public with information on hunting activities are urged to report it via crimewatch@league.org.uk, or by calling the confidential Wildlife Crimewatch line on 01483 361 108. Any criminal activity should also be reported to the Police on 101.