by Katie Alston

Police had to close down an illegal rave in picturesque Chilham.

Officers had several calls from the public on Saturday night complaining of loud music.

For safety reasons they had to wait until 5am on Sunday before they could move the several hundred people gathered, away from the farm land at The Beeches, Ashford Road near Canterbury.

No one was arrested.

Chief Inspector Hayton said: “We made the decision to close down the party due to the affects on the local community.

"When we felt the large number of people could leave safely we moved in, as a large amount of alcohol had been consumed.

"We had to ensure that these people did not further disrupt the community as they left."

The remaining party goers left the wooded area at around 10am on Sunday morning.

Audio: Richard Taylor, Chilham Parish Council chairman, talks to kmfm

Chilham Parish Councillor Margaret Barbrook said: “It is a real nuisance, but I guess with villages like Chilham being surrounded by woodland it seems to go hand in hand.

"This is not the first time we have had reports of illegal raves in the area. We tend to hear loud drumming noises from time to time.

"The problem is worse for people living on the outskirts of the village.

"It really is unpleasant, but I guess inevitable when you live in rural locations. I just wish they would choose somewhere else to disrupt and cause mayhem."

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