POLICE have confirmed that an illegal rave at Corfe Castle has been fully dispersed.

It is believed that about 1,500 people attended the music event in the Purbeck area and around 500 vehicles are present in the area.

The rave was first reported to police at 10.40pm on Saturday, May 27 and last night, on Sunday, May 28, officers gained full control of the area and the music was turned off.

Police are set to remain in the area throughout today and police confirmed that everyone had left the site by afternoon (Monday, May 29).

The force thanked nearby residents for their 'patience' as they dealt with the scene, adding the rave has caused 'distress and upset'.

Chief Constable Mark Callaghan of Dorset Police said: “Officers have been working throughout the days and nights to ensure that this event was brought to a safe conclusion.

“On Sunday, May 28, police officers gave a direction for people to leave the scene using powers under the Public Order Act.

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

“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.

“By the early hours of this morning, only a small proportion of individuals remained on site and the music had been turned off to minimise any further disruption to residents.

“Following assistance from our partner agencies, as well as officers from other south west police forces, we can now confirm that everyone left the site by around 2.30pm on Monday, May 29.

“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.”