POLICE are stepping up vigilance against illegal raves taking place over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Devon and Cornwall Police is working with partners and residents to make potential locations in the counties unattractive to rave organisers.

Officers have stepped up patrols of potential rave areas and are working with farmers and landowners to secure sites to make them unsuitable locations.

Chief Superintendent Ian Drummond-Smith said: “We know the misery raves can cause to nearby residents, with loud music keeping people aware for hours on end. It also has a significant impact on livestock and wildlife, and often participants leave the land badly damaged.

“We are working with local partners to advise farmers and landowners on how to secure their property to make it an unattractive option for organisers. We keep a close eye on reports of planned events and our response will be robust to stop any event before it starts.”

He urged residents to report any unusual increase in road traffic in rural areas; social media activity advertising the rave and its location; vehicles carrying sound equipment; or large gatherings of people in unusual areas late at night such as farmland or open countryside.”

To report any unusual activity phone 101, or if organisers are spotted setting up equipment phone 999, or report anonymously to CrimeStoppers via its website or on 0800 555 111.

“Our aim is to deter organisers of unlicensed music events from choosing locations within Devon and Cornwall due to the noise and disruption they cause to both people and wildlife in the area,” Ch Supt Drummond-Smith added.