Warnings against Facebook party

More than 3,000 people said they planned to attend the beach party

Police in south Devon are warning people not to attend an illegal beach party being advertised on the internet.

The party planned for July in Torbay is being advertised on social networking site Facebook as a "night of mayhem". Nearly 4,000 people plan to attend.

Police said they would "robustly enforce the law" and take whatever action was necessary to prevent the event from happening.

The force said public safety was its primary concern.

Location secret

More than 3,700 have said on the website page that they plan to attend the event, which organisers describe as the "biggest open party Torbay has ever seen".

The organisers said they would not reveal the planned location until the day before it is due to be held, but police said resources would be deployed throughout the force area to monitor the movement of those likely to attempt to establish an illegal gathering.

Torbay Police commander Supt Chris Singer said safety was always the main consideration during a licensed event and due consideration had to be given to fire safety, medical provision, safe access and sanitation.

He said no such measures would be considered for an illegal gathering.

Police, emergency services and Torbay Council are working together to formulate a response for any problems that may occur.

Police said resources would be deployed throughout the force area to monitor the movement of those likely to attempt to establish an illegal gathering.

Supt Singer added: "Police have and will use powers to seize sound equipment and will arrest offenders."