Organisers of controversial unlicensed raves have defended themselves, saying they are providing safe entertainment, after the events were criticised by councillors and residents.

Thurrock councillors claim at least four unlicensed events have taken place so far this summer in the borough.

The latest event was on Saturday, August 12 in woodland area near Arisdale Avenue, South Ockendon.

Residents heard the noise, but were more upset by the rubbish that was left behind.

One woman, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “It is disrespectful to the community. Arisdale Avenue was a disgrace the morning after. The people should be ashamed.

“If the raves generate entertainment that is very good but organisers must ensure there are rubbish bins and there is a full clear-up the next day.”

Previous events were held by the same organisers on the May 27 and July 15 in the Mardyke Woods.

Ukip Thurrock councillor Luke Spillman said: “Licensing laws are not in place to stop young people having fun. They are there to make sure that venues are properly supervised, are safe and are not causing an unacceptable nuisance to nearby residents.

“It is worrying to consider what the consequences could be if there was a serious accident at one of these events.

“However, we must also look at our continued failure to provide a vibrant night-time economy.”

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But organisers feel they are responsible and always ensure the events are safe and the area cleaned after.

One organiser, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “A lot of people had a really good time. No one was hurt and the mess has been tidied. All we do is bring the community together to celebrate music.

“Unfortunately there are no venues that will allow for this kind of event. We are genuine people and don’t like disturbing anyone which is why it’s so far out of the way.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Police received two calls in relation to noise nuisance coming from a woodland area off of Arisdale Avenue at around 3am on August 13. Officers located an area within the woodland that had clearly been used for an unauthorised event.

“Police have liaised with the landowner, the local authority and identified the organisers for this event.

“It has been confirmed no permission was given to hold this event and police are now working with the landowners and council in relation to taking action against them.”

Environment councillor Aaron Watkins said: “Unlicensed raves in our parks cannot be tolerated. We received one complaint about the event through our out-of-hours team and I understand that Essex Police are aware of this issue.

“I will be speaking to officers about how we collaboratively tackle the issue which is causing distress to neighbours.”

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