​Ravers say they were “just having a bit of cake” after police shut down illegal party

Over 1,000 illegal ravers took to Dorset’s Lulworth this weekend, which has since jokingly compared to the Partygate scandal in defence of the all-night ravers.

The day-long event began in the early hours of Easter Sunday when ravers descended upon Lulworth Ranges in southeast Dorset which was subsequently shut down some 21 hours later by police.

Dorset Police broke up the event after “some time”, saying that it was incredibly difficult to disperse due to its enormous scale. Over 1,000 people congregated with soundsystems, tents, vehicles and rave-ready lighting on the morning of Sunday.

“Understandably, we have received a number of calls from concerned and upset residents who have had their sleep disturbed by the noise levels coming from the illegal event,” said deputy chief constable Sam de Reya.

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In the days following the event, ravers and Dorset dwellers alike have taken the Dorset Police Facebook page to defend the illegal party, comparing it to the recent scandal in Number 10 Downing Street.

“Anyway, biggest question of all — Was there cake?” one commenter asked, “They’re just having a bit of cake for 10 minutes to polish off the cheese and wine!” added another.

Jokes mocking the recent Partygate political scandal were in abundance: “It wasn't a rave, it was just cheese and biscuits listening to repetitive beats…”, another commenter said.

“Lots more events like this please,” someone asked, with another adding: “Good on you beautiful party people. After the last couple of years you deserve a good blow out. Pm me with my invite next time”.

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While Dorset locals came to the defence of the 1,000 illegal partygoers, Dorset Police added that many of them could have been put in danger: “As there are army training sites in the area, those attending the event are potentially putting themselves in danger by crossing these locations.

“There is also an amber wildfire risk and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue are providing robust advice to not have open campfires or use BBQs in the open countryside,” said de Reya.

The party was eventually broken up at around 9:PM on Sunday evening, according to the DCC. Police used powers under the Public Order Act to disperse the crowds.

Police stayed present in the area after the event was shut down and added that they would investigate any criminal offences, with a potential lead to prosecution.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Editorial Assistant, follow her on Twitter