A CLUBHOUSE has been forced to close after travellers set up an unauthorised encampment at a recreation ground in Ringwood. 

New Forest District Council say it has been made of the unauthorised encampment of caravans and associated vans at Carvers recreation ground off Southampton Road.

The clubhouse at the ground has had to close as a result of the latest encampment which arrived ast night (July 6), according to the town council.

A spokesman for New Forest District Council said: “We are aware of the unauthorised encampment at Carvers reaction ground Ringwood.   

“Our officers have been on site since early this morning, working with local partners and engaging with all persons present.  

“We will provide updates when appropriate.”

A spokesman for Ringwood Town Council added: "We are aware of the unauthorised encampment on Carvers Recreation Ground, which arrived last night.

"We are working with all relevant authorities and will provide an update as soon as we are able. As a result, Carvers Clubhouse, Ringwood will be closed today."

A spokesman for Hampshire Police said: "We were made aware of an unauthorised encampment just after 9pm yesterday evening (Wednesday 5 July) at Carvers Recreational Ground on Southampton Road in Ringwood.

"Officers have visited the encampment on several occasions since and continue to monitor the situation.

"They are working closely with the landowners, and local partners, in order to seek a suitable resolution."

It comes around a month after a group of 20 stayed on Bickerley Common. They have since moved on.