A GROUP of travellers were still camped at Avon Heath Country Park, in St Ives, on Monday.

They pitched up at Dorset’s largest country park, owned by Dorset County Council, with around 20 caravans at around 5.30pm on Saturday.

They are staying in the coach park on land owned by the Highways Agency.

Dorset Police are aware of the travellers but moving the party on is the Highways Agency’s responsibility, a spokesman said.

The council’s gypsy liaison officer has been informed and is in contact with police about potential action.

Staff had to close the café on Sunday because of disturbances but it was open for business on Monday.

Steve Davies, senior ranger, said: “They’re on an area of land owned by the Highways Agency.

“Police are also considering what action to take. There’s been some slight disruption, which is only to be expected when people come onto somebody else’s property uninvited.

“But we’re doing our best to offer a normal service.

“There is still an issue with individuals causing a nuisance in the café so we are restricting entry.”

The 600-acre park of heath and woodland is home to internationally important heathland and rare wildlife, including sand lizards, snakes and warblers.