Forest patrols bid to prevent illegal raves
HIGH visibility police patrols took place in Macclesfield Forest this weekend following intelligence an illegal rave would take place there.
Officers had warned people to stay away after similar events took place the previous weekend in Oldham and Trafford resulting in serious physical and sexual assaults.
So far police have reported no such gatherings in the forest but have described a number of incidents to suggest plans could have been in place.
On Friday night officers moved on six people from Warrington who were setting up camp for the night and another man was arrested for being in Macclesfield Forest, which was a breach of his bail conditions.
Police also attended a road accident on Saturday morning in which the driver provided a positive breath sample.
The three occupants of the car were injured and said they had been out camping overnight.
Another man was found with cannabis following a stop and search in Macclesfield Forest.
Over the weekend there were also reports of a group congregating at the reservoir near Whitney Croft and anti-social behaviour near Leadbeaters Reservoir.
Superintendent Jo Marshall-Bell, from Cheshire Police, said: “We understand that it’s been a difficult time for everyone, particularly young people who have been unable to socialise.
“However, the coronavirus regulations are still in place and it’s essential that we all play our part to help save lives and protest the NHS.
“I would urge anyone who is planning to attend an illegal rave to think twice.
“We have a dedicated policing operation in place.
“We will continue to use common sense and discretion to determine what is reasonable.
“However, where illegal gatherings or raves take place proportionate action will be taken, which may include arrest or even prosecution.
“Any music equipment will also be seized.”