Ashby de la Zouch Town Council says that the traveller group camped at Westfields Park had until today (Thursday) to move on - or the police will become involved.

But reports from residents near Western Park confirm they have now moved there instead.

A number of sporting events regularly take place on the council owned land to the south of the town.

The group arrived in Ashby on Sunday, causing nearby Westfields residents to complain to police, councillors and council officials.

Town council leader, and Leicestershire County Councillor, John Coxon has issued a response and what action will be taken,

Cllr Coxon said: "The Town Council has received a number of messages and telephone calls from concerned members of the public regarding the presence of traveller caravans on Westfields Recreation Ground which occurred on the afternoon of Sunday 25th July 2021.

"I have been in contact with the Multi Agency Travellers Unit (MATU) Service Manager at Leicestershire County Council. He has been out to this group, comprising of around 15 caravans.

"He has assessed the situation and requested police assistance as he believes that, in this particular situation, it would be the fastest method of recovering possession of the Town Council's land.

"The MATU Service Manager and the police have served notice on the group under section 61 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

"The travellers have until 7pm on Thursday 29th July 2021 to vacate the Westfields Recreation Ground. The police will enforce this deadline should they need to do so.

"Local officers will continue to monitor the site and the occupants during this time.

"Please be reassured that the Town Council has acted as quickly as possible in this situation and it will continue to work with the police and Leicestershire County Council to minimise any disruption."