A JOINT investigation into a cockfighting ring has led to four men being charged in connection with the bloodsport.

The investigation by North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Taskforce, and the RSPCA, led to officers swooping on a rural location in the Hambleton district on January 13.

Four men were later charged with offences linked to cockfighting and police have released images of three other men they would like to speak to.

The men who were arrested at the scene are aged 53, 31, 29 and 23, and are from the Durham and Northumberland areas.

They have been charged with causing an animal fight to take place, keeping or training a cock for use in connection with an animal fight and without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, being present at an animal fight.

The 29-year-old man has also been charged with keeping premises for use for an animal fight, and being present at an animal fight on other occasions.

All four will appear at Northallerton Magistrates Court on July 10.

Inspector Geoff Edmond, from the RSPCA, said: “Four individuals have been charged with animal welfare offences, however the wider investigation is ongoing.”

Police and the RSPCA are keen to identify the men in the photographs as Sergeant Kevin Kelly, from North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Taskforce, explained: “If you recognise these men, please contact North Yorkshire Police, as they may have important information that could assist the investigation.

“Please dial 101, select option two and ask for the Rural Taskforce, or email ruraltaskforce@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference number 12180007024.”

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.