Steyning illegal rave: Arrests as thousands gather overnight

Sussex Police warned people not to visit the area, and has closed off nearby roads

Eleven people have been arrested after thousands gathered for an illegal rave overnight in West Sussex.

Sussex Police said it attended "a large unlicensed music event" near Steyning on Sunday morning and has closed off surrounding roads.

Videos on social media show crowds gathered on Saturday night and partying into the morning with professional sound and lighting systems.

People were arrested on Sunday for drug use, and drink-driving offences.

Ch Supt Nick May said the force estimated about 2,000 people had been at the rave, although that number has now reduced.

He said "robust action" is being taken as officers continued to disperse the crowd and "bring it to a safe conclusion" late into Sunday afternoon.

The force is also looking at seizing sound equipment, and prosecuting people where possible, Mr May added.

Dozens of cars lined the country roads, with some abandoned on verges, on Sunday morning.

A spokesman for Sussex Police warned anybody who was planning to travel to the site that "officers will be taking action against them".

Under current coronavirus rules, gatherings must not exceed 30 people unless covered by a legal exemption.

Mr May said: "Our priority is ensuring the safety of the community and everyone in the vicinity.

"We have a significant number of officers at the scene working to bring the event to a safe and timely conclusion.

"This is an ongoing matter and we thank the public for their patience and cooperation at this time."