ESSEX Police has gone on the record to defend their reasons why they let an illegal rave in Belhus Woods take place.
Dozens of Aveley and South Ockendon residents had a sleepless night as the very loud music played until the small hours.
Over 150 clubbers descended into the woods after receiving a message that a number of DJs would be performing.
Many residents expected that the police would exercise their powers enshrined in law under Sec 63, Criminal Justice Act, 1994. In June 2014, the police broke up an illegal rave in Davy Down.
But it appears that after attending the rave, police decided to let it carry on.
An Essex Police spokesperson said: “We were called to reports of noise disturbance in woods at the Belhus Country Park at around 9.30pm on Saturday, April 8.
“Officers attended and found around 150 people taking part in an unauthorised event.
“Following an assessment of the situation based on the threat, harm and risk posed to the participants and local residents a decision was made to allow the event to continue while being monitored by officers.
“After the decision was made, Essex Police received a further two calls about a noise disturbance.
District Commander for Thurrock, Chief Inspector Richard Baxter added: “I’d urge people not to try to arrange or attend any unauthorised event like this.
“Often no risk assessments are made of the area or venue where they take place which can potentially leave those attending vulnerable.
“If you see or know about any of the events taking place, I would urge them to contact us on 101”.
YT spoke to both Thurrock Council who confirmed they had one complaint. Essex County Council, who have jurisdiction over Belhus Woods did not receive any complaints.
We have also put the matter to Thurrock Ukip, who have nine councillors in the wards of Aveley, South Ockendon and Belhus. They are preparing a statement.
===================
Original article: June 2014………
AN illegal rave being set up at Thurrock has been stopped by Essex Police.
Officers went to a location at Davy Down, off Ship Lane, Aveley, at 5pm on Friday June 6 following reports on social network sites that a rave would begin at 9pm.
The Essex Police helicopter was used to find the site, near the M25/A13 junction, where a number of marquees had been erected and equipment was being set up.
Supt Adrian Coombs, who told the organisers that the event was illegal and ordered that the site be cleared, said: “Essex Police will not tolerate illegal events of this kind. This is a public safety issue and it is important to remember that illegal events are not regulated in relation to health and safety and that the environment is not necessarily a safe one.
“Drink and drugs are usually available at these events and because they attract mainly young people they can be extremely vulnerable to those wishing to make a quick profit. Parents should always be suspicious if they suspect that their young sons or daughters are planning to attend events at remote locations.
“Any Essex residents who suspect that an illegal rave is being set up in their area should contact us immediately. Early information is critical if we are to prevent a rave from taking place and I would urge the public the help us tackle these illegal events.”
The post Essex Police defend decision to let “illegal rave” in Belhus Woods play through the night. appeared first on Your Thurrock.