Police have called on people in rural parts of Powys to help prevent people holding illegal raves on their land.

Dyfed-Powys Police have issued a statement asking people in rural communities, including farmers and landowners, to report anything suspicious to the police.

That, they say, will help police to stop raves before they start.

Superintendent Jon Cummins, head of specialist operations for Dyfed-Powys Police, said: "These types of illegal events are carefully co-ordinated to avoid police attention, and organisers will always try to find new ways to avoid being found out.

“We rely on the support of communities to report any suspicious activity immediately, so action can be taken to disrupt illegal gatherings swiftly. And there has never been a more important time for us all to look out for each other, and report anything that seems suspicious."

Signs that raves are going to happen might include large numbers of vehicles – and particularly camper vans or trucks – appearing in an area.

Illegal trespassers may recce sites in advance, or ask around for land with the front of hiring it for other activities like scout camps of gymkhanas.

Social networks make it easier for organisers to spread the word – rave attendance numbers can grow hugely in short spaces of time, and locations can change quickly.

“We know raves can cause anxiety to the community they are held in, and if not dealt with swiftly are difficult to stop due to the sheer numbers of people involved," Supt Cummins added.

"There is also a safety concern involved in breaking-up such events. And as we’re currently faced with the Coronavirus health crisis, it is absolutely crucial that these types of gatherings do not take place."

Officers will also be heading out to patrol areas which could become rave sites before the bank holiday weekend.

Phil Morgan, land management team leader from Natural Resources Wales, added: “During this time of government lockdown, there really should be no one contemplating running or even attending an illegal rave. However, we are putting special measures in place over the bank holiday weekend to make sure all Natural Resources Wales sites are secure, making it as difficult as possible for anyone wanting to disobey the law."