Arrests made as police try to shut down 'illegal rave' in north Cornwall
Officers say they are concerned for the people in attendance and the impact on the local community
Last updated 5th Jun 2022
Police have confirmed that a small number of arrests have been made at an illegal gathering in north Cornwall.
We are told the arrests are on suspicion of possessing illegal substances and also driving offences.
Hundreds of people are believed to be at the event at Davidstow Moor, described on social media as a rave, and have reportedly travelled from across the country.
It first started on Friday night and officers say a significant number of specialist resources have been deployed to the scene.
As of Sunday morning police are still working to try and close the event down.
In their most recent statement, a police spokesman said: “Our concerns are both for the people in attendance and the impact on the local community.
“We are currently at the scene working with members of the public to bring about closing the event down.
“Local roads are currently gridlocked and there is limited access for emergency vehicles to attend should they be needed.
“In the interest of public safety, we are asking anyone thinking about attending the event not to do so. Especially as this is intended to be closed down shortly.
“We have also closed local roads in the area until further notice.”
In a statement on Facebook, north Cornwall MP Scott Mann said: "The Police are currently attempting to disperse the crowd. I have made it clear that I would like this to be done as soon as possible due to the disruption and concern this is causing to my constituents in the area.
"Evidence is being gathered so that those responsible in attendance can be put forward for potential prosecution. I can only urge those who are still in attendance to leave as soon as possible, and anyone still considering attending this event not to do so.
"I am not happy that many people in North Cornwall have had to put up with this unplanned and uninvited event, especially when so many of you have worked hard to make this an unforgettable weekend. The organisers of this illegal event have given no consideration to our community, or the cost of cleaning up the mess they are likely to leave behind.
"I am also very upset about the damage and distress this has caused to farm animals and surrounding wildlife. There are many farms close by that I've been told have had a horrible night."