CONCERTED action by Rochford police and council has seen off a planned three-night illegal rave.

Those involved have reacted effectively and decisively - and they needed to.

Raves may be presented as fun events, but they are anything but fun for those within earshot.

They cause unacceptable misery for miles around.

Their malevolent effects extend even further, as they add to and fuel the sense of lawlessness and anarchy in British society.

On Sunday, police action against an illegal rave in Norfolk resulted in a concerted riot and an attack on a police station by a 100-strong mob.

It seems raves aren't about music and partying at all, but about creating a vehicle for mayhem.

At least we can be grateful the methods and willpower are in place to keep Essex a rave-free zone.