A GROUP of travellers, thought to be on their way back from the Great Dorset Steam Fair, moved onto land behind houses at Ringwood during the weekend.

Seven traveller caravans and associated vehicles were at the site, off Parsonage Barn Lane today.

Ringwood Town Councillor Jeremy Heron told the Daily Echo: “They moved in on Saturday and have told police they’ll be gone within the next few days, as the school term is starting and they have children.

“Obviously, as a town council we cannot rely on that and Monday morning we will start the process for their removal.”

One local resident, who asked not to be named, said neighbours were concerned about noise and possible anti-social behaviour.

Another local said: “I walked my dog through the path across there and they have some lurcher-type dogs on site, but they seem to be tied to kennels.

“The fear is always whether or not any more caravans will turn up and the site grows. But we’ve been told they’re on their way back from the Great Dorset Steam Fair, and they should be moving on soon.”

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