AN illegal "rave" that attracted around 3,000 people to Herefordshire has been dispersed.

Large numbers of vehicles left the gathering at Stretford Court farm, Stretford, near Leominster, yesterday afternoon after police officers gained access to the site.

A total of 20 arrests were made - mostly the organisers of the event - and West Mercia Police are now investigating.

Around 30 people remained at the site last night. Police said 20 of the revellers lived in the area and the remaining 10 were awaiting transport away from the site.

Uniformed police officers have also remained at Stretford Court to provide a high-visibility presence, and an operation is in place to ensure the situation is not repeated.

Over the weekend, officers confiscated large amounts of sound equipment and alcohol after residents complained about noise from the gathering, which began on Saturday night.

Officers had been pelted with bottles when they tried to halt the party, and one reveller was taken to hospital suffering from the effects of either alcohol or drugs, police said.