Police investigating incidents of poaching stopped a man armed with a .22 air rifle.

Ribble Valley Rural Task Force said they have been checking vehicles in and around the area following reports of poaching activities.

In the early hours of Saturday morning a male armed with a .22 air rifle was stopped in the east of the county. It was later revealed he was subject to a lifetime ban from possessing firearms (including air weapons) having previously served three years in prison for the offences.

The rifle has been seized and the male has subsequently been interviewed regarding his activities.

Last week, Rossendale Rural Taskforce had said they had also stepped up activities in the local area after several reports of people trespassing on land with Lurcher dogs and firearms.