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An entire Gloucestershire village has been put on lockdown, with all businesses forced to closed on what should be one of the busiest days of the year.

Police have descended on Parkend, in the Forest of Dean, due to a large incident allegedly involving people staying in the village.

Force bosses have said it follows reports of violence and intimidation by a group of around 40 people staying in the area, and business owners have voiced their dismay, Gloucestershire Live reports.

A teenager has been arrested and is in custody, police confirmed.

In a post on Facebook the landlord of the Fountain Inn - which had a night of live music planned - said: "Absolutely gutted to announce that, on police advice, we've had to cancel our live music tomorrow (Boxing Day) and will be closed completely in the evening.

"It's not a decision we've taken lightly, as we know so many of you were really looking forward to it. Several establishments have had trouble with a large group staying locally and police attended seven times last night.

"Thankfully we didn't have any problems here, but we'd like it to stay that way. Merry Christmas one and all, and apologies once again for letting you all down."

A later post revealed that Boxing Day is normally one of the busiest days of the year, but meal bookings had to be cancelled.

(Image: Google)

It is believed the incident centred on Whitemead Forest Park, a holiday park made up of lodges which sits just outside the village.

The park posted on Facebook this morning: "It is with regret that our facilities including Restaurant, Bars, Shop and Swimming Pool will be closed today. We are so sorry for any inconvenience."

One person posted on Twitter: "Such a shame about parkend! Families being forced to close their establishments on one of the busiest days of the year!! Some people have no care!"

Following the Fountain Inn's decision, customers posted their sympathy.

Debbie J Howard wrote: "Such a shame that a few people can spoil other people's special day. It must have not been any easy decision for all the proprietors to make"

And Sue Warren wrote: "Totally gutted for u all... is the pub trade wasn't hard enough."

The nearby Woodman Inn confirmed it is closed today 'due to unforeseen circumstances'.

A statement from police to Gloucester Live said: "Officers are currently working with staff at Whitemead Caravan Park in the Forest of Dean to manage the anti-social behaviour of a group of around 40 men, women and children who booked into the site on 23 December.

"There have been reports of intimidating behaviour, foul and abusive language to others and violence within the group, causing disruption and distress to guests, staff at the site and the wider community.

"Officers attended and made it clear to the group the level of behaviour that is expected but further incidents have been reported and police last night reattended to a report of violent disorder.

"A 16-year-old boy from Leicester was arrested on suspicion of affray and assaulting a police officer and remains in custody at this time.

"The group are due to leave the site tomorrow but the park has called in further security officers and police are in the area to offer reassurance and monitor the situation."