Travellers again pitch up on Beechings Way Playing Fields, Gillingham
12:51, 23 August 2022
updated: 13:02, 24 August 2022
More travellers have converged on a popular recreation area.
Residents say caravans and vehicles arrived at Beechings Way Playing Fields, Gillingham, overnight adding to those which arrived last Wednesday.
It's believed the number pitched up at the site in Twydall, which is used by children and dog walkers, has risen to more than 30.
A psychic evening at Twydall Community Centre on Thursday night was cancelled as organisers felt it was advisable given previous experience.
In June, travellers moved back on to the field just weeks after being evicted from the site.
This time they spread out across the playing field and parked on the football pitches, around the hall and the children's play area.
In March they camped up near the community centre.
There have been several other occasions in recent years when travellers have occupied the field.
In 2019, they turned up five times in a month.
Medway Council and the police have been approached for comment.
Meanwhile, Gravesham council is going through the courts to evict travellers in Northfleet.
About 20 caravans remain at Wombwell Park, despite an eviction notice coming into force last Friday.
Ian Gilmore, Medway Council's Head of Regulatory Services, said: "We're aware of the group and are following a civil legal process to move them on."
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