Illegal rave on Wiltshire farm highlights issue of farm security

Activity occurring in empty and remote buildings should be secure and regularly monitored
Activity occurring in empty and remote buildings should be secure and regularly monitored

An illegal rave took place on a Wiltshire farm over the weekend, causing the farmer to speak of her devastation and bring back into the spotlight farm security.

Jane Harley, of Valley Farm in Chitterne in Wiltshire, revealed how 25 cattle escaped from a field after revellers broke down a 4ft fence and how she had to stay up all night to try and protect her land as around 500 partygoers passed through it.

Police were made aware of the free party at around 12.30am on Sunday morning (16 April) after the farm’s foreman spotted people setting equipment up near to Valley Farm, but they did not have enough resources to shut it down immediately so allowed it continue until 7am.

Mrs Harley said the sleepless night will set her back by about £1,000 as the fence had to be repaired by two workmen on Tuesday and her two employees will have to be paid overtime.

This site has been popular for illegal raves in recent years and Mrs Harley is urging revellers to think about people’s livelihood and well-being in the future.

'Great deal of disruption'

Rural organisation the CLA has advised farmers and landowners to reduce the risk of any illegal activity occurring in empty and remote buildings by ensuring they are secure and regularly monitored.

The organisation says that access to land should be restricted wherever possible by the use of locked gates.

CLA East Regional Director Ben Underwood said: “Illegal raves cause a great deal of disruption to local communities, with the resulting mess causing considerable harm to both wildlife and the environment.

“These illegal gatherings can also create unnecessary problems for landowners, who could fall victim to considerable clean-up costs and expensive repairs to outbuildings.

“We urge farmers and landowners to help the Police by reporting any suspicious activity, as early intervention and good local intelligence can prevent these illegal events from taking place.

“Officers find it much harder to shut down a rave once it has already started so if you spot anyone suspicious on rural land or a number of unfamiliar vehicles in your area, then please report any such activity on the non-emergency number of 101 as soon as possible.”