A man has been arrested and sound equipment seized after police shut down an illegal gathering near King’s Lynn early on Sunday morning (23 August 2020).

Police were called shortly after 1am by a member of the public reporting a suspected rave at Ashwicken.

Officers arrived on scene and discovered approximately 70 people on land near to Bawsey Pitts in the early stages of an unlicensed music event.

Roads accessing the area were blocked by police cars before officers went on to the site at about 3am. The music was switched off at police direction at 3.15am.

Generators and sound equipment were seized and a 31-year-old man from King’s Lynn was arrested on suspicion of organising the event. The man was taken to King’s Lynn Police Investigation Centre where he remains in custody and will be questioned.

Assistant Chief Constable Julie Wvendth said: “These events are not only illegal and unsafe, they also cause unnecessary damage and disruption. Where we can prevent, disrupt or stop a rave taking place, we will do everything within our power to do this, providing it’s in the best interests of all concerned.”

Earlier this month, the government announced tougher measures targeting the most serious breaches of the public health regulations introduced to help stop the spread of coronavirus. New legislation, which comes into effect on Friday (28 August), will see organisers of illegal raves face a £10,000 fine while those who attend will be liable for £100 fines.

ACC Wvendth added: “Coronavirus is still with us and continues to be a real threat. Young people are not immune to this threat and we would urge them to think twice before attending such events which are unsafe and carry a significant risk of transmitting the virus.

“The key to stopping these events is early intelligence and information from our communities. We’re grateful to the local resident who called police after hearing loud music and noticed several cars heading to the area. The prompt call meant we were able to respond effectively and stop the event before more people were able to attend.”

If you have information about illegal raves or concerns suspicious activity in your area, you can report this by calling 101.