Call to be vigilant for signs of illegal countryside raves

Police want the public's help in spotting raves before they start

The bank holiday is almost upon us, and police chiefs are warning people to watch out for illegal raves in the countryside.

Farmers and landowners are being urged to be extra vigilant to the possibility of unlicensed musical events being organised on their land.

A checklist of clues to look out for is as follows:

- The removal of locks from secure access points

- Vehicles particularly panel vans or larger, driving off-road

- Groups of vehicles congregating in rural areas

- Convoys of vehicles

- Loud music from remote woodlands

If you spot anyone suspicious who may be conducting reconnaissance on rural land or even setting up an event, you can report it to the Thames Valley Police 24-hour non-emergency number 101.