Police aiming to prevent 'night hawking' in Redlynch and Woodfalls
Officers say there's been increasing reports on the edge of the New Forest
Wiltshire Police have been patrolling the edge of the New Forest, following reports of so-called 'night hawking' there.
That's where people use metal detectors to search for artefacts at protected archaeological sites, usually under cover of darkness.
There's been increased reports of the activity in the Redlynch and Woodfalls areas.
Officers patrolled the area early yesterday morning (Thursday 27th April) and spoke with Forestry Commission staff.
They've been conducting wildlife surveys after reports of night hawking on the previous evening.
Information about other suspicious incidents have been shared with police.
Officers say their patrols are aimed at providing reassurance, with more checks being carried out in the coming weeks.