AN appeal into enforcement notices served on gipsies on an unauthorised site near Eckington opened yesterday.

Wychavon District Council issued the notices asking the group, who arrived around four months ago, to leave the site and cease building work. Wychavon believes the land is unsuitable due to proximity to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and main road.

Gipsy enforcement agent Dr Don Kenrick, who unsuccessfully tried to get the appeal adjourned, admitted the site was contrary to local policy. But he said 'material considerations' such as a national shortage of gipsy sites, lack of alternative accommodation in the area, and the health and educational needs of the group must be included.

Site resident Richard Hughes, a father of five said: "If we can't stay on this site we will have to go back on the road." He said two of his children suffer from asthma.

Robin Green, representing Wychavon said: "The question is whether the appeal site is the appropriate location for that need to be met. It is the view of the council it is not." The appeal concludes tomorrow.