AN illegal rave dispersed after police were called to a Widnes beauty spot on Saturday night.

Residents raised the alarm shortly before midnight.

Police discovered around 75 people in the woods at Pickerings Pasture beside the River Mersey in Halebank.

Inspector Mike Evans of Widnes Neighbourhood Policing Unit said: “We received three reports of an illegal rave and people collapsing.

“A patrol arrived within 12 minutes of being called. There was a crowd of sensible adults in good spirits.

“Around 75 individuals were present, most of whom left on police advice.

“Nobody was injured. There were no reports of any drug activity or fire setting. Nobody needed medical treatment and no arrests were made.”

A sound system with music decks was found.

He said the police would continue to monitor the area.

Insp Evans added: “We will conduct checks to prevent it happening again. We would encourage people not to gather in a dark wooded area at night.

“I would urge any residents who have any concerns to contact us.”

Police officers visited residents who reported the rave the following day to reassure them that action had been taken.