Police called to illegal rave just outside Brandon

Police have confirmed they have been in attendance at the scene of an illegal rave just outside Brandon.

Officers were called at around 11.20pm last night, Saturday 29th August, to the unlicensed music event which was taking place in the forest between Brandon and Mundford.

A number of resources were deployed to the area this morning including drones, the police helicopter and dog units.

Police were first alerted to the event after a member of the public called reporting a large number of cars queuing to access a fire route.

More than 500 people were reported to be in attendance with close to 100 vehicles on site and officers say they are attempting to close the event down in a safe and controlled manner.

Paramedics were also been called to the scene following reports that a man had become unwell.

People living in Brandon, Weeting, Hockwold and Mundford have reported hearing music from the event from just after 3am today, Sunday 30th August.

A video taken at the event was posted to social media just before 4am and those living nearby have heard music coming from the event all day today.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick Davison, who is leading the operation, said: “We’ve deployed a number of resources to the scene including the drone unit, dogs, the National Police Air Service helicopter and specially trained public order officers who are experienced in dealing with such events.

“Following assessments, it’s clear this is a well-established and planned event which is due to go on until tomorrow. We are working to close the event down in a controlled manner, taking the safety of those in attendance and our officers into account. Due to the number of people at the event, additional policing resources will be needed and this will take time to resource.

“Coronavirus is still with us and continues to be a real threat so it’s extremely disappointing to see these types of events taking place when the rest of our communities are doing everything they can to help stop the spread of the virus. “We will work to identify organisers, seize equipment, deal with any criminal offences and impose penalties where evidence is available.”

The event comes just days after police warned those organising unlicensed music events that they face robust action following new laws that came into force allowing heftier fines to be issued.

Police in England were given new powers from Friday to fine organisers of illegal gatherings of more than 30 people up to £10,000.