‘Shameless’ travellers who illegally set up camp on land in Essex threaten to PROSECUTE anyone who tries to move them
Four caravans appeared overnight on the area of industrial land in Towie homeland Brentwood, in Essex
A GROUP of travellers have been branded ‘shameless’ after they broke onto land and put up signs threatening prosecution against anyone who attempts to move them.
Four caravans moved onto an area of industrial land in Towie homeland Brentwood, in Essex, after boltcutters and chainsaws were reportedly used to gain access to the site.
But residents were left gobsmacked when official-looking signs appeared warning anyone entering the camp would be prosecuted.
The signs read: "We live at this property, it is our home and we intend to stay here.
"Any entry or attempt to enter into these premises without our permission is therefore a criminal offence as any one of us who is in physical possession is opposed to such entry without our permission.
"If you attempt to enter by violence or threatening violence we will prosecute you. You may receive a sentence of up to six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £5,000."
The audacious move does have a basis in law, with travellers often using similar notices when they arrive on new sites.
It's now down to the private landlord to take action – which it is understood they have yet to do – as it is not publicly-owned land.
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The group gained access to a site on Friday night and have since locked themselves in.
Jenny Downs, 40, said: "I was walking along the road at around 11pm when I noticed that they had broken through the fence and were settled inside.
"I've spoken to quite a few of my neighbours who said that they were using bolt cutters and chainsaws to get through the fence last night, and have since secured the site from the inside.
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"There are reportedly at least four caravans on the site.
"They were making a lot of noise and lighting fires all through the night, and we're worried.
"We're afraid that now they are inside, they're going to start shipping people in over the weekend."
Another resident fumed: "You could not make it up – it's one rule for them and another for the rest of us.
"They really are shameless. I just hope the police take action but it looks like nothing's being done from where I am looking."
A spokesman for Brentwood Borough Council said: "It is the responsibility of the landlords to take the necessary legal action.
"However, Brentwood Borough Council is liaising with Essex County Council's Essex countywide traveller unit, police and the private landlords to keep up to date with developments."
Essex Police no complaint has yet been lodged by the landowner.
A spokesman said: “Police were called at around 10.20pm on Friday, May 5, to reports of an unauthorised traveller encampment in Wates Way, Brentwood.
“Officers attended the site and found four caravans and six vehicles on the land.
“No complaint has been formally made by the landowner.
“However, we are currently liaising with the travellers and Brentwood Borough Council and we will continue to monitor the situation.”
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