AN operation between police and leading wildlife and environmental groups has been launched after poisoned eggs were found in Ryedale.

North Yorkshire Police have been working with Natural England and the National Wildlife Crime Unit after poisoned eggs were found on Spaunton Moor, near Pickering.

The discovery sparked a search at two addresses and two gamekeepers are now helping police with their inquiries. Typically, poisoned eggs have been injected with poison which discolours their content. The eggs are often used as bait to kill animals such as birds or foxes.

The laying of any poisoned bait in the open is illegal.

Anyone with information should contact Ryedale Wildlife Crime Officer PC931 Jez Walmsley at Malton Police Station, or phone North Yorkshire Police on 101.