POLICE are supporting council officers with an illegal traveller encampment on a popular city playing field.

Five caravans and four cars make up the encampment in the centre of Diglis Playing Fields.

The travellers arrived at the field at about 9pm last night (Wednesday, June 21), according to eyewitnesses.

Inspector Tanya Beckett from the Worcester Safer Neighbourhood Team said they appreciated people living near the park or who use the park regularly may have concerns.

West Mercia Police officers will have a 'visible presence' at the park, near Diglis Lane, which is popular with dog walkers and has a children's play area.

Insp Beckett said: ‘‘We’ve been made aware of an illegal encampment located at Diglis playing fields, off Waverley Street in Worcester and police will support Worcester City Council when they serve notice to the site later today.

"We will continue to work closely with, and support the local authority and our partner agencies, to ensure the site is cleared at the earliest opportunity.

‘‘We appreciate the concern this may be causing and want to reassure the community there will be a visible police presence in the area.”

READ MORE: Travellers move on to Diglis Playing Fields

Illegal encampments are dealt with by local councils and police attend to support with the enforcement of eviction notices.

The playing fields are owned by Worcester City Council which said it is aware of the situation and is working with the police to find a resolution.

A spokesperson for Worcester City Council said: “The presence of the travellers at Diglis Playing Field is unauthorised.

"We are working with the police to monitor the site and we will use our powers to ensure the travellers are moved on as soon as possible.”