Hunt for suspected Todmorden badger-baiting trio (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Hunt for suspected Todmorden badger-baiting trio

7:00pm Tuesday 29th January 2013 in News By Peter Magill, Chief reporter

THREE suspected badger baiters are being hunted by police after they were disturbed by an animal lover.

The trio were uncovered in the Robinwood area of Todmorden on Friday and wildlife officers have now issued their descriptions.

An eyewitness reported suspicious activity with a number of setts just after 10.50am, according to Calderdale Police.

The first man is said to be white, aged 30 to 38, with brown short hair and of a stocky build. He was wearing a grey or brown jacket.

The second man is also said to be white, aged between 30 and 40, nearly bald but with fair coloured hair. He is of average build and was wearing camouflage trousers and a green or brown jacket, similar to the first man’s coat. He was carrying a jacket.

A third man being sought by officers was wearing a black-coloured fleece and green-brown trousers.

An investigation is being overseen by the division’s wildlife officer, Special Constable Phil Sanderson.

He said: “Badger baiting is a horrible crime and I would urge anyone who suspects the crime is taking place to contact police.”

The alert follows similar incidents in Sowerby Bridge and Barkisland, in the Calderdale area, which were reported to police last year.

Covert cameras have previously been used by Lancashire Police to catch suspected badger baiters in Rossendale.

Mr Sanderson can be contacted about the Todmorden incident on the non-emergency number, 101.