A group of suspected poachers abandoned their vehicle in a Wensleydale village last night.
Five men, who had two dogs and lamps with them, were seen in the Wharfedale area at about 10pm last night.
A member of the public, thought to be a rural watch volunteer, called the police and then followed their vehicle into Richmondshire.
The group drove the 4×4 a green Honda CRV into Aysgarth, but turned down a dead-end.
A local resident said the group was then blocked in by the member of public in their own 4×4.
The suspects abandoned the vehicle and ran off across fields.
Police arrived shortly afterwards and the vehicle was seized. The suspects were not found.
Inspector Mark Gee, from Richmondshire neighbourhood policing team, said it highlighted the good work done by rural watch volunteers.
“They really are our eyes and ears in rural areas and we are very grateful for their help,” he added.
