LANDOWNERS across Tendring are being urged to be extra vigilant over fears that a group calling themselves Collective Love are trying to stage an "illegal rave".

The warning comes from police chiefs and council bosses following information that the group is attempting to get access to a site to hold the unlicensed event.

The owners of the car boot field at Weeley and Saxon Lodge kennels next door have both been contacted over holding a music and fashion show.

But both the police and Tendring Council suspect it is a cover for an illegal rave to be held.

Chief Insp Russ Cole said: “We are extremely worried about the possibility of this group attempting to hold an unlicensed event in the Tendring district.

“We have every reason to believe that they may be attempting to target Weeley as a location in particular.

“The number of people attending unlicensed events cannot be controlled. They have no licence to sell alcohol, will not have proper security, first aid or safety measures in place and are often targeted by persons who simply want to sell drugs.”

The police are aware of an event being advertised to take place at Weeley car boot site this Saturday.

The landowner has been warned and has confirmed that he has not given permission for the site to be used.

“Unlicensed events such as illegal raves will not be tolerated in our area and organisers will be dealt with robustly,” added Mr Cole.

“I would strongly advise anyone who may have been planning to hold one to think again.”

Council licensing boss Mark Cossens said: “I would strongly urge all landowners such as farmers who have fields or barns to make sure that these are as secure as possible.

"Other sites like village playing fields also need to be vigilant against unlicensed events.

“If approached, ask for proof that the organisers do actually hold a licence and not just claim to do so.”