Illegal rave in Catmore descends into violence

Arrests made as police are pelted with missiles at illegal gathering

THIRTEEN police officers and a police dog were injured after an illegal rave in a rural area of West Berkshire descended into violence on Sunday morning, resulting in six arrests.

Around 350 people descended on woodland in Catmore on Sunday, and as Thames Valley Police tried to halt proceedings at around 4am, missiles including burning wood were thrown at officers, causing one to require hospital treatment after being hit on the head by two bottles.

Dc Greg Hulse, who is leading the investigation, said: “We have arrested those who are believed to have organised the event and we have seized a large amount of sound equipment.

“This was an illegal rave which at times descended into violent disorder.

“Fortunately, the rave happened in a very isolated location so there was minimal impact on the neighbouring community. However, several farmers have reported that their animals were disturbed by the loud music.

“I am keen to speak to anyone who attended this rave. It is likely that some of those who attended would have filmed what was happening on their phones and I would be very keen to see that footage.”

Anyone with any information about this incident should contact Newbury CID on 0845 8 505 505, or anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A 24-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, both from Sutton Courtenay, a 21-year-old man from Wallingford, a 29-year-old woman from Didcot, and a 26-year-old man from Wantage have all been arrested on suspicion of being involved in organising an illegal rave.

An 18-year-old man from Bedford has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.

None of the six have been charged, and all have been released on bail.

If you have more information, pictures, or would like to have your say on the incident, email mark.taylor@newburynews.co.uk