Cheshire Police are urging people not to attend an illegal rave they suspect is being organised for Macclesfield Forest this weekend.

So far there have only been a small number of incidents in the county, although there have been others in nearby counties, some of which have resulted in serious physical and sexual assaults.

The force is aware of intelligence to suggest that people are planning further events this weekend, including raves in the Macclesfield Forest and Hale/Speke areas.

Officers are actively monitoring the sites and anyone who is considering on attending either of the events are advised to stay away.

Superintendent Jo Marshall-Bell from Cheshire Police said: "We understand that it's been a difficult time for everyone, particularly young people who have been unable to socialise with friends due to COVID-19.

"However, the coronavirus regulations are still in place and it's essential that we all play our part to help save lives and protect the NHS.

"I would urge anyone who is planning to attend an illegal rave to think twice. We have a dedicated policing operation in place and increased police presence across the county throughout the weekend.

"Our teams will be patrolling key locations and they will act on any intelligence they receive regarding any possible events.

"We will continue to use common sense and discretion to determine what is reasonable, with officers engaging, explaining, encouraging and, only as a last resort, enforcing.

"However, where illegal gatherings or raves do take place proportionate action will be taken, which may include arrest or even prosecution. Any music equipment will also be seized."

The Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team posted on social media last night breaking up several gatherings across the county, including at Macclesfield Forest.

One man was arrested in the area due to breaking bail conditions barring him from being away from home at that time.

The rural police unit also supported their Derbyshire counterparts just over the border to break up "a huge tented village in the trees" was dismantled. The Facebook post said officers found the people with nitrous oxide canisters and alcohol.

The team also posted that two men from Manchester were stopped en route to Macclesfield Forest and provided a positive drugs wipe resulting in the arrest of the driver and seizure of the car.

Anyone with any information or intelligence in relation to any possible illegal raves is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101.