Travellers on Arle playing field say they will keep it clean - Gloucestershire

From the Gloucestershire Echo

TRAVELLERS have moved into a playing field in Cheltenham.

A family of Travellers have taken over a playground just behind Hallmead Close, in Pilgrove Way.


Four caravans and cars moved into the park from Durham late Monday afternoon.

One of the Travellers, who did not want to be named, said they had not received any complaints.

She added: "I've only just got here and it's our first time in Cheltenham. We are really enjoying the sunshine and the town.

"Some people have been around to the site to say hi and they all have been very welcoming and nice. We are all one family and it's what we do. We travel around and go to new places.

"The thing is, it's a way of life for us, and something a lot of people do. It's been okay so far. People always talk about us and if we are trouble, but we've been quite clean and tidy.

"The police have come by to tell us to make sure we do not leave rubbish around, but other than that, we have not had any trouble."

Neighbours at the site have both welcomed and complained about their presence, with one resident going out of her way to get new locks for her house.

Arthur Brown, 60, whose backyard faces the play area, said he was not bothered by their presence.

He added: "As long as they don't bother me, I have no problem with them. There have been some loud music and dogs on the loose, but that's normal in a park.

"I don't have that many complaints about them. I think the problem is more with families who have young children who might use the nearby play area."

Another resident in Hallmead Close, who did not want to be named, went out to get new locks after the Travellers moved in.

She said: "I had to make sure. My concern is that now they've found it, it is going to keep happening and the site will be recycled."

A spokesman for Cheltenham Borough Council said: "We can confirm that there are Gypsies on council land and we are starting the necessary process to consider their removal."

A spokesman for Gloucestershire Police said: "Officers have attended and spoken to the individuals involved who have reassured them that they will be taking any rubbish with them when they go.

"Police will, of course, respond to any reports of anti-social behaviour or crime, just as we would in any other area."