KENT Police are asking landowners in the county to remain vigilant, particularly in rural areas, to the possibility of illegal raves taking place.

The warning comes after a team of officers intercepted a rave in private woodland in the village of Lynsted, near Sittingbourne, on Sunday morning.

Police were called at around 7am to a suspected rave where they discovered around 150 people along with a stage and sound equipment.

After liaising with the landowner, police began to seize equipment and check all the vehicles at the site.

Subsequently two people were arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and possession of a class A drug.

Insp Mick Gardner said: “Using powers under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act, we can successfully deal with illegal raves early on by seizing equipment and preventing access to them.

"This is not about stopping people enjoying themselves in open areas but these kinds of events need to be handled responsibly. The aftermath and destruction left after some raves suggest that this is often not the case.

"I am keen to reiterate though that illegal raves in the Mid Kent area are rare and I encourage local residents to contact us if they are aware of any further potential incidents.”

Anyone who suspects that they know the location of a proposed rave should contact Kent Police on 01795 419182 or alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555111.