WHEN it comes to fighting wildlife crime, Hampshire police is one of the best forces in the country, according to a new report.

World Animal Protection, an organisation campaigning to stop animal cruelty, has revealed that Hampshire Constabulary is in the top 12 of police forces in the country for protecting wildlife against cruelty.

Hampshire MEP, Catherine Bearder, pictured right, is a wildlife campaigner and has worked in the European Parliament to protect biodiversity for future generations.

She said: “Wildlife crime is fast being used by organised criminal gangs as an easy option as the level of policing is low and Hampshire police have recognised this.

“Protection of our biodiversity is so vital to ensure the wellbeing of our planet and the survival of some of the country’s most treasured creatures.”