DORSET Police have revealed the exact powers they used to tackle the illegal rave which took place in Purbeck over the Easter weekend.

Because the landowner did not give permission for those attending the gathering to go onto the site officers were able to use Section 63 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 which gives a superintendent the police powers to direct officers to enter a site and direct those present to leave.

Police said:"If they fail to leave as soon as is practicable or return within seven days, they can be arrested. Section 64 gives powers to police to seize vehicles and sound equipment if they fail to leave and Section 65 gives officers powers to direct people away from the site."

Yesterday police revealed they had made three arrests in connection with the event. Two men were arrested for alleged drug driving, and a woman was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.