LEGAL action has been launched against travellers who have moved on to Worcester's cattle market.

Around nine caravans descended on the McCartney's site, off the A440 at Nunnery Lane, yesterday afternoon and set up camp.

But the auctioneers were quick to take action, contacting their solicitors this morning and launching a legal bid to get the travellers moved on.

"Around nine caravans just descended on the top two car parks of the site on Tuesday afternoon," said Clive Roads, of McCartneys. "The police were called and they came up to assess the situation and ensure there was no violence, which there wasn't. The police have since been monitoring the situation.

"I have spoken with our solicitor who is now pursuing the necessary legal action to move the travellers along. I am not sure how long this will take but hope that it is resolved swiftly."

Mr Roads said the travellers' presence had severely disrupted yesterday's sales at the cattle market, with many buyers and sellers unable to attend.

"This is having a big impact on our business," he said. "We have had limited use of the site because of the caravans and many people were unable, or unwilling to come along, which is extremely frustrating and disappointing."

Mr Roads said the travellers were already causing litter problems on the site and was concerned about the state it would be left in following their departure.

A police spokesman said they had been notified of the arrival of the travellers but as the land was private, it was a civil matter. They also confirmed that they would monitor the situation.

Worcester has seen a number of travellers setting up on various sites around the city this year, including at the former Ronkswood Hospital in Newtown Road, Shrub Hill car park, Perdiswell Leisure Centre and Worcester Woods Countryside Centre.