POLICE are hunting two men who were reportedly spotted hare coursing in the Seacliff beach area, near North Berwick, over the weekend.

Members of the public reported spotting two men engaging in the illegal activity on Saturday morning, around 11.30am.

They received two further reports of incidents during the course of Sunday.

The reports come as a member of the public reported coming across the distressing sight of a dead animal while walking on the beach on Saturday.

A photograph of the dead animal, which appeared to be a goat, was shared on social media amid reports its throat had been "cut and bitten" by a large animal.

It is not known if the discover is linked to the weekend activity.

A police spokeswoman said: “Police in East Lothian are investigating following three reports of hare coursing in the Seacliff Beach area near to North Berwick.

“Enquiries are still ongoing to establish the full circumstances of these incidents. Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”