ANYONE thinking of organising an illegal rave in Gloucestershire this summer should think again, the county’s police have warned.

The Constabulary has already decisively dealt with a number of such events this year and is determined to continue with this approach throughout the weeks and months to come.

Chief Supt Steve Ackland, of Gloucestershire Constabulary's Operations Department, said: "Raves and other unlicensed music events are not tolerated in Gloucestershire.

"We receive numerous complaints whenever such gatherings are held, and, as well as the noise levels and littering, often there are issues of trespass and other illegal activities being committed, including drink driving and drug taking.

"We are not in the business of preventing people from having a good time, however when the process of having a good time causes an annoyance or even a danger to others living in the area, and damages property and wildlife, then that cannot be allowed to continue.

He said the police would work with landowners, councils and other bodies, including the Forestry Commission, to prevent, disrupt and disperse illegal raves in Gloucestershire.

He added that anyone committing offences would be arrested and those responsible for organizing the events was likely to be prosecuted and to have their sound equipment seized.

Members of the public are being urged to play their part and support police action by reporting any suspicious activity which might lead them to believe a rave was being organised.

Anyone who has information about an illegal rave or who witnesses suspicious activity on farmland or in buildings should contact the police on 0845 090 1234.