Reading Rave Shut Down After 300 Partygoers Defy Police in Chaos
Police smashed an illegal rave with over 300 revellers crammed into a field in Reading after a tense two-hour stand-off on Saturday night. Dozens were arrested following fierce clashes when many partygoers, drunk or high, refused to quit the unlicensed bash.
Massive Police Response to Berry’s Lane Rave
The chaos erupted in a field near The Reading Lake Hotel on Berry’s Lane, Pingewood, where huge crowds gathered for an illicit music event. Thames Valley Police scrambled more than 50 officers, including armed units and riot squads with helmets, batons, and shields, plus two dog units. The police helicopter from nearby NPAS Redhill also joined the operation.
The force called in reinforcements from Reading, Newbury, Bracknell, Wokingham, and Slough to restore order after ravers threw missiles at officers when asked to leave peacefully.
Motorway Madness as Ravers Spill Onto M4 Verges
The rave disruption escalated as some partygoers stormed the M4 motorway verges, forcing police to impose speed restrictions and temporarily halt traffic in both directions. Reading Services was placed on lockdown as officers blocked all exits to prevent further trouble.
A local hotel guest, James Andrews, said: “Around 10.15pm, helicopters started circling overhead, and we could see police forming a barricade at the end of the road. There were so many police cars it looked like a full operation. Despite the DJ swearing at officers and provoking them, the police handled it very professionally.”
Police Confirm Multiple Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said, “We were alerted to an unlicensed music event in Reading. More than 300 people were dispersed from the field on Berry’s Lane. Several arrests have been made, and those individuals were taken to Reading Custody Centre. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.”
The rave was finally broken up after intense efforts to restore calm and tackle lawbreakers disrupting the local community.
