VIDEOS on social media show thousands of people descending near a Dorset beauty spot for an illegal rave over the bank holiday weekend.

It is believed about 1,500 people attended the music event in Corfe Castle, with around 500 vehicles there. 

The rave was first reported to police on Saturday night and on Sunday, officers gained full control of the area and the music was turned off as a criminal investigation was launched. 

Dorset Police confirmed that everyone had been dispersed from the site by Monday afternoon.

 

@djantix #fyp #uktek #rave #freeparty #corfecastle #rig #hard #trance ♬ original sound - Richie Martyr

 

The force thanked nearby residents for their 'patience' as they dealt with the scene, adding the rave has caused 'distress and upset' to locals whose sleep had been 'disturbed'.

Several pieces of footage on social media video sharing site TikTok shows the inside of the rave on private land near the historic Dorset castle in the Purbeck area. 

Large crowds can be seen alongside huge speakers blasting out music at the unauthorised event, dubbed 'UK Tek 2023'.

Chief Constable of Dorset Police, Mark Callaghan, said that officers have been working 'throughout the days and nights' to ensure the rave was brought to a 'safe conclusion'.

It took police two days to disperse people from the site as Corfe Castle locals reported being kept up by loud music and bass.

"Due to the large-scale nature of the event, we anticipated this process would take some time," Chief Con Callaghan said. 

“While the large numbers were dispersing, we have had to balance the safety of our officers and all those involved, as well as any risk to the local community and our road network during a busy Bank Holiday weekend.

“Dorset Police will not tolerate unlicensed music events due to the increased risks and impact they have on our communities and those visiting the area.

“The distress and upset this has caused to residents and visitors is not underestimated and we will be carrying out an investigation to identify those responsible for organising unauthorised events such as these.

“I would like to send my thanks and appreciation to the local community for their patience while we took positive action to prevent any further disruption and safely dealt with this incident.”