Police sound warnings over illegal raves which may be planned in Derbyshire

Illegal raves have been taking place in many parts of the country in recent weeks – and Derbyshire Constabulary has stressed it has ‘well developed’ plans to deal with such events.

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Superintendent Claire Hammond, from the force, said: “Events of this nature are hugely disruptive for the communities they take place in and massively dangerous for those who attend them.

“We have seen events held in abandoned quarries and in the middle of forests which present potential dangers such as falls of hundreds of feet along with deep, cold water – both potentially lethal in the middle of the day, let alone in the dark of night.

“Put into the mix alcohol and illegal substances and it is a potentially fatal combination.

“Should somebody get into trouble then these locations are inaccessible to emergency services and those critical first minutes that are absolutely vital in saving a life could easily be lost.”

Supt Hammond said: “Our local policing teams work closely with their council counterparts with eyes and ears across the county which are well-versed in the first signs of a gathering.

“When officers do find a rave, they can and will confiscate equipment and turn back those planning on attending.”

Supt Hammond also sounded a warning for parents of children who may be attending illegal raves.

She said: “As a parent I know the very last thing I would want is for my son or daughter to come to harm – and I cannot stress the potential danger of events in these locations.

“I do not want my officers to have to deliver the news that no parent should have to hear after a gathering in Derbyshire.

“If you believe your children may be attending a rave then please, speak to them, explain the dangers and, if you believe they have attended an event and have information about where this may be, please contact the force that polices that area and help safeguard countless young people who may be in danger.”

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