Travellers pitch up by Romsey Rapids with 13 caravans and vehicles

Arriving at the cricket grounds overnight, bailiffs have been instructed by Test Valley Borough Council and are issuing a notice for the group to leave today (Tuesday, July 18).

Test Valley Cllr Nick Adams King posted on Facebook: “Police are aware and are assessing the situation.

UPDATE: Travellers remain by Romsey Rapids despite demands to leave

The field by Romsey Rapids (Image: Adele Bouchard)

"The council has made contact with neighbours (Rapids, Youth in Romsey, Cricket Club etc) as the community impact is potentially significant given the start of the summer holidays.

“A court date has been obtained for tomorrow if the group do not comply with the notice to quit the site later today.”

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: “We are aware of an unauthorised encampment at Romsey Rapids car park; this was reported to us yesterday evening (July 17).

SEE ALSO: Test Valley Council confirm Travellers have left Valley Park

“Officers continue to monitor the situation and will be conducting local patrols in the area as a result. We are working closely with the local authority to seek a suitable resolution.”

A spokesperson for Test Valley Borough Council: “The council was made aware that a number of unauthorised travellers had made forced entry to the Romsey Sports Centre and Rapids site on Monday (17 July) evening.

"Bailiffs were instructed by Test Valley Borough Council, and they have issued the travellers with a notice to leave this afternoon (Tuesday 18 July). A court date has been obtained that will be used if the site is not vacated in time. Police are monitoring and assessing the situation.”

The incursion comes just weeks after Travellers broke into Valley Park in Chandler's Ford.