Hundreds of people caught at an illegal rave in Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire’s Forest of Dean has become the unlikely topic of controversy this week, after roughly 300 ravers were discovered on Sunday, after an all-night party.

According to the local police force, partygoers gathered in mass on Saturday night – showing a complete “lack of respect” for the environment in hosting the illegal rave.

The party, which happened near Cinderford in the heritage cultural region of the Forest of Dean, was broken up and disbanded on Sunday morning, after several complaints from residents who could hear the loud music from “miles away”, reports Gloucestershire Live.

According to a spokesperson for the Gloucestershire Police, officers worked “through the night” on Saturday until Sunday afternoon.  

“Police were called to Staple-edge Woods, near Cinderford, late last night (Saturday 3 July) to reports of an event.”

“Officers want to thank the local community for their patience as the work continues to disperse the gathering and reassure those living in the area that they understand how much of an impact an event like this can have,” they continued.

Police were already ahead of the game on Saturday evening. After hearing news of the party, they proceeded to block off roads leading to the forest at around 11:30 PM – turning away potential ravers. Unfortunately for them, by that time, hundreds had already gathered within the forest for the rave!

Police made their move on Sunday, seizing sound equipment in the process, but made no arrests.

Superintendent Jane Probert stated, “the individuals who have attended this rave have shown a complete lack of respect for the environment, residents and tourists in an area of such outstanding beauty.”

A large amount of litter is currently being removed from the scene by police and government agency Forestry England.