TWO men have been sentenced for trespassing on land near Ross-on-Wye with a firearm.

Michael Thomas, 49, of Greenfield Street, Bargoed and David Corbett, 35, of Trosnant Crescent, Penybryn, Hengoed were both given four months in prison, suspended for two years.

The sentencing at Hereford Magistrates Court also gave them both a £1,500 fine, an £80 government surcharge and a forfeiture of firearms, shotgun licences, rifles, ammunition and hunting equipment.

Corbett also received a six month driving ban.

The pair were found guilty after a trial of trespassing on farm land with a firearm.

At the time of the arrest at the end of last year it was believed the men intended to poach deer.

Superintendent Sue Thomas said: “This is a great result from a case that has been on-going for the last year.

"Rural crime is a key priority for West Mercia Police and we hope this conviction sends out a strong message to the rural community that we take these issues seriously and they will be dealt with robustly.”

Anyone who has any information on wildlife crime is urged to call police on 101, Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/