POLICE are asking landowners and members of the public to help them crack down on any illegal raves planned for the county over the Easter holiday.

Trespassers taking an interest in what could be a potential rave site or invasions onto land by people with vans suitable for transporting sound equipment should be reported to police.

Officers are also urging landowners to remain vigilant and immediately report any activity which may lead them to suspect a rave is being organised on their land.

Extra care should be taken to ensure property entrances are secured wherever possible.

Any large gatherings of vehicles may indicate a designated meeting point.

A police spokesman said illegal rave organisers have little concern for the health, safety and welfare of those attending the event, or for the local residents who are adversely affected.

Superintendent Jed Stopher, Deputy Divisional Commander of Essex Police's mobile support division, said: "I want to warn anyone who is considering organising a rave in Essex that I will do all within my power to ensure they face prosecution for holding such an event.

"We will also seek to prosecute anyone attending a rave who commits other offences, such as damage. This is a public safety issue and it's important to remember that Illegal events are not regulated in relation to health and safety and that the environment is not necessarily a safe one.

"Early information is critical if we are to prevent a rave from taking place and I would urge the public the help us tackle these illegal events.

"If we get reliable and timely information about where and when an event is being set up, generally we can get to the site, identify the organisers and seize sound and other equipment before the rave begins."

Any suspicious activity which may be connected to an illegal rave should be reported to police immediately, dialling 999 if necessary or 0300 333 4444.