VILLAGERS hope they have thwarted an attempt to set up an unlicensed music festival this weekend (August 6/7).

Two weeks ago plans were revealed that a festival was being organised for a charity event in fields off Lawsings Lane, between Clapham and Eldroth. The event had been planned for this weekend.

However, the organiser failed to get a temporary permit from the district council due to the late request and the event was meant to have been cancelled.

At the time, organiser Craig Stephenson said he was upset he had not sought a licence in time as the event was meant to raise money for MIND following the death of a friend.

Mr Stephenson said he did not expect a lot of people to arrive, even though the festival was being advertised as free entry and with well known DJs present including Mrs Magoo.

Residents feared an influx of festival-goers arriving by train to Clapham Station and camping ad-hoc around the area.

Yesterday evening (Friday), parishioners said they were alerted to the arrival of a portable toilet to the site and what looked like camping activity beginning.

Clapham cum newby parish councillor Ann Sheridan went along and saw an articulated trailer being delivered. There was also a small number of vehicles and tents.

"The people there said it was just going to be a private barbecue event. However, the police were called and attended and told them that if any music was played they would be closed down.

"Last night (Friday) there was no noise so we will see what happens tonight. We have an incident number and have been told to contact the police immediately if anything gets set up. The trailer looks very much as if it would be used as a sound stage," she said.

At lunchtime today there was around half a dozen vehicles and tents with a larger gazebo and barbecue set up.

The field can be accessed by a public footpath and gateway off the main road.