A GROUP of travellers have moved onto a field next to a leisure centre.

Canvey residents looked on as multiple travellers with caravans moved onto the field next to Waterside Farm Leisure Centre on Somnes Avenue at around 7.30pm on Tuesday.

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Traffic was held up as the travellers crossed onto the field directly from the road.

The encampment remains on the field this morning.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We were called at around 6pm yesterday with reports of an unauthorised encampment in Somnes Avenue, Canvey.

"We received reports that 16 caravans and 14 vehicles were parked at Waterside Farm Leisure Centre.

Travellers ordered to leave playing field by noon TOMORROW

"We are liaising with the encampment and Castle Point Council and we continue to monitor the situation."

Castle Point Council confirmed they were working with police to remove the encampment from the field.

Rebecca Harris, Castle Point MP, said: "Following contact from local residents, I have been in contact with Essex County Council urging them to take swift action and their traveller unit confirmed they would be issuing a ‘Direction to Leave’ notice.

"They are on Castle Point Borough Council land and I confirmed with them this morning they do not have permission to be there."

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