POLICE officers who faced hordes of violent ravers over the weekend have been praised for their bravery.

Angus Macpherson, Wiltshire and Swindon’s police and crime commissioner, commended their ‘courageous’ actions following an illegal rave which left four officers injured.

The event took place at an empty warehouse at the River Ray Industrial Estate overnight on Saturday.

Around 100 revellers were already in the building with almost 200 more trying to enter the property in the early hours of Sunday.

Concerned for public safety, police cordoned off the area and things turned sour when partygoers clashed with them.

Four police officers were injured, with one taken to taken to Great Western Hospital with concussion after being hit on the head with a brick. He was later released.

“All the officers who were involved showed great bravery, being outnumbered by the people at this event,” said Mr Macpherson.

“I’ve sent messages of thanks to them, especially the four injured, two of whom were specials volunteers.

“On behalf of the public I would to thank those who were down there with specials and neighboring forces supporting the operation. We cannot plan for events, such as this taking place but we will learn from it.

He added: “There is no excuse for the public to use bottles, bricks or laser pens against the police.”

People were still trying to get into to the rave at 8.30am but they were being turned away. The thumping music was eventually turned off at 9.15am as those in attendance began to make their way home.

Several revellers were also treated at hospital and by paramedics for their injuries following the clash with police.

It is understood that the rave was organised underground with revellers, who came to Swindon from across the south, receiving a message informing them of where the event was taking place.

“We haven’t partied in Swindon for 10 years so the people wanted us to come back and party in Swindon,” said one 25-year-old Oxfordshire-based man, who attended the event and wished to remain anonymous.

“It never gets out of control like it did on Saturday night.”

Wiltshire Police are still investigating the incident, with a 34-year-old from Cambridgeshire having been arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer and violent disorder.

A 22-year-old man from Suffolk, a 20-year-old woman from Suffolk and a 21-year-old man from Kettering were also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.

A 20-year-old from Dunstable was arrested on suspicion of violent conduct.

Commerical property agent Alder King is marketing the unit where the rave took place. Martin Baker from Alder King, said: “I have spoken with the client and they are looking into the damage.

“We are leaving the matter to the police and allowing them to do what they do best.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the police on the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, information can be left with Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.