Vigilance Call On Illegal Raves This Spring

Pembrokeshire County Council and Dyfed Powys Police are asking farmers, local landowners and community councils to be on alert over the coming weeks for warning signs of any illegal raves planned for their land, to coincide with the forthcoming Bank Holiday period.

Pembrokeshire County Council and Dyfed Powys Police said that whilst there was no specific evidence of an event being planned for the County, social networking made it easier for organisers to spread the word of events and numbers attending could grow quickly.

Farmers, landowners and local communities are encouraged to report any suspicious activity immediately to the Police, especially if there are unusual numbers of vehicles, especially camper vans, vans or trucks seen in the locality.

Illegal trespassers may do “recces” of sites in advance of the event, or people may approach landowners and ask around for land, in the guise of hiring for acceptable activities such as gymkhanas, scouts/guides etc.

“There is little doubt that events are well planned and organised and local knowledge is important in drawing down the main group to a field or area of land which has been targeted as a suitable venue,” said Cabinet Member for the Environment and Regulatory Services Councillor Huw George.

“Raves can cause anxiety to the community and if they are not dealt with swiftly, they are difficult to stop due to the sheer numbers of people involved and the safety aspect surrounding breaking up such an event.”

If you do have concerns call Dyfed Powys Police (0845) 3302000 and ask to speak to the Duty Sergeant or Duty Inspector at Haverfordwest Police Station.

Alternatively, call Pembrokeshire County Council out of hours service (01437) 775522