POLICE say they thwarted plans for an illegal Bank Holiday rave at a Forest beauty spot.

They said would-be ravers were stopped from setting up an event in the Cannop area on Saturday, May 25, unaware that officers were already looking for them as part of their patrol plan.

Police challenged ravers who had arrived in vans and 4x4 vehicles and, with support from the Forestry Commission, sealed off gates to prevent access.

Inspector Andrew Hodgetts, local commander for the Forest of Dean, said: “This plan was in place because residents have expressed significant frustration at being kept awake throughout the night, but hopefully on this Bank Holiday weekend people slept peacefully.

“The forest is a large and beautiful place, but I can’t promise that I can stop raves every time. 

“However, with the help of the community we can minimise the opportunities.  

“Anyone who sees anything suspicious when they are out and about in the forest is urged to give us a call so that we can respond.”