VOLUNTEERS are stepping up patrols after plans to hold an illegal rave at a Bolton beauty spot in the coming weeks has been leaked. 

Staff at Rivington Heritage Trust became aware of plans to host an ‘illegal rave’ in the Lever Park area near Rivington - after spotting it on an ‘underground’ Facebook page.

Andrew Suter, the charity’s heritage programmes manager, said: “There has been three raves in the area in the past and they have caused us around £2,500 worth of damage, including broken gates and broken locks.”

He added that Lancashire Police and United Utilities - which owns the land - have been informed about the plans, and will also be increasing patrols over in the coming weeks.

In April of last year, at the start of the first national lockdown, a similar event took place at the Rivington Pinetum - but volunteers only found out about it after it happened.

“There was sick everywhere, as well as evidence of illegal drug use, and a gazebo,” Mr Suter added.

“We are asking people to stay vigilant and if they do see or hear anything, then please report it to us and the police as soon as possible.”

It comes as Bolton, followed by Blackburn with Darwen, is recording the highest Covid infection rate in the country - and Government guidance is encouraging people in places with significant numbers of the Indian variant of coronavirus to be cautious, and continue staying two metres apart from people not in their household.

A post to the charity’s Facebook page read: “Disappointingly, we have had word that a group who held an illegal rave last year are planning on holding another one in the Lever Park area.

“In response we are increasing evening patrols and have notified the authorities.

“We would urge them to reconsider.

“Please stay vigilant and report anything suspicious to 999.”

The charity works to repair and conserve Rivington Terraced Gardens and the surrounding area.

Sgt Harrison from Chorley Police said: "This evening and over the weekend you will see an increased presence from Police and Partner agencies in the Rivington area.

"This is due to information we have received about a possible rave over the weekend in that area. The last time a rave occurred in the area it resulted in a number of Covid Tickets being issued and the sound equipment was seized.

"Remember there are offences of gathering and proceeding to a gathering under the Criminal Justice and Public order act. With the help of United Utilities, Rivington Heritage Trust and North West 4x4 Response we have eyes everywhere."

A Lancashire Police spokesman added: “We are in regular contact with our partners and are working to prevent these events from happening.

“We will take robust action against anyone seen to be organising or attending illegal raves.”