AROUND 30 ravers were forced to pack up their glowsticks and go home early at the weekend after police moved in to break up their illegal party. Officers were alerted to the event at Clocaenog Forest by nearby residents last Friday (June 8) and intervened while the venue was still being set up. A spokeswoman for Forestry Commission Wales revealed so-called free parties often left officials with a huge clean-up task, and praised police for their prompt response. “Clocaenog Forest is the site for illegal raves during the summer months – and this has been the case for some years,” said South Denbighshire district inspector Mike Hughes. “The exact site varies but they are generally within the forest. These are advertised by word of mouth, e-mail and text messages. “One of the main issues is that partygoers may think they are in a remote area, but these events actually present considerable disturbance to those who live in the forest or nearby villages, due to noise and traffic. “The other issues are those of public safety and that these may be in breach of licensing legislation that govern temporary events. “They can be difficult to police as very often by the time the police are made aware, there may be large numbers already in attendance.” Inspector Hughes revealed around 30 people had already turned up, travelling from as far as Merseyside, when police arrived to serve a notice to quit the site. He added those who turned up had been organised enough to bring a portable generator, sound system, marquee and even their own rubbish sacks for recycling. Rachel Chamberlain, Forestry Commission Wales district manager for Clocaenog Forest, said: “Our woods are beautiful places for all to enjoy, but illegal gatherings such as this can create environmental problems and often leave us with a huge clean-up task, as well as being a nuisance to residents. “People who arrange these raves on our land are contravening bylaws and we work closely with local police to stop these illegal events. “We are pleased that in this case the prompt action of the police, acting on local information, was successful in preventing this rave from taking place.” matt.sims | 
