Tensions running high as Travellers take residence on Swindon Rugby Club Grounds - Wiltshire

From FLIC Wiltshire

Tensions are running high at Swindon Rugby Club after a group of Travellers turned up overnight and set up camp on the club's grounds.

The Travellers entered the site via the Twickenham Close access point at some point during the night and have taken up residence on the Mini and Junior field.

Wiltshire Police have attended the site and have said that extra patrols will be maintaining vigilance.

Stratton Parish Council and staff from the Rubgy Club have also spoken to the Travellers, who say that they will be leaving by Saturday morning.

The Rugby Club has said that understandably the situation has caused "highly charged feelings"

"We have spoken with the Travellers, and are now working with the relevant authoritative bodies to resolve the situation lawfully, fairly and in a timely manner to ensure that the said persons vacate the area by Saturday morning latest.

Whilst this fluid situation exists, the committee and Stratton Parish Council would request all SRFC members undertake extra vigilance on security of the club premises, motor vehicles parked on site, sports equipment and personal possessions. In the interests of personal safety and security the committee also asks that all members please refrain from any verbal or personal contact with the Travellers.

Further information will be communicated as events unfold, but we realistically expect them to be in situ until Saturday AM taking into account the many factors involved in such a matter.We would thank the several members and friends of the club who communicated the issue so promptly early this morning."