15 devastating pictures show Leeds nature reserve ruined after illegal lockdown rave

The pictures below reveal the trail of destruction left behind at a Leeds nature reserve after around 200 people disregarded the lockdown to attend an illegal rave yesterday (Monday).

The huge crowd took over Kirkstall Valley Nature Reserve, Kirkstall, and blasted music out for several hours before police swooped in to shut down the illegal rave. Three people were arrested.

Some of the party goers walked directly past signs warning them about deep water and waded through the River Aire to access an island, where birds have been nesting. It is not yet known how much damage has been caused to their nests, but a local community group has slammed the actions of those who took part.

Scroll down for a full gallery of photos from the site of the rave

Crumpled beer cans, smashed bottles and a smouldering fire were left behind on a small pebbly beach on the bank of the river.

Paegan Ward, 29, visited this afternoon and was left "angry" by the scene.

"It's really beautiful down here, but it's been ruined," she said. "I'm really angry. I totally understand that people want to have a good time, but it's not just the rave and the mess that's made me angry.

"We're in lockdown and it's just so disrespectful. It's a slap in the face to everyone who is doing their best to try and be sensible.

"These people just don't seem to care. It's really disgusting."

Scroll through the pictures below to see the mess that was left behind.