SCORES of Irish travellers have invaded a paddock in Droitwich Spa.

Caravans, cars, trailers and horses currently occupy lush acres off the Bromsgrove Road (A38).

Their arrival has created concern for the Chateau Impney, the site owner, and amongst the wider community.

The camp, including more than 30 caravans, was based at Hampton Lovett Business Park, but moved en masse on Monday night. Police warned the travellers they face eviction but the families say they plan to leave shortly.

Wedding

The Advertiser spoke to Mary Dawn, a born and bred traveller from Southern Ireland. She said relatives and friends had gathered following her niece's wedding.

"We are resting before moving on to Appleby Horse Fair, in Cumbria," she explained. "The business park was too dangerous with all the lorries and traffic.

"This is a fine field and I admit it's a shame to drive across it. We'll do our best to look after the pastures and clean up when we leave."

The 52-year-old admitted no permission had been sought to pitch up."The gate was open so we just pulled on," added the grandmother.

Harness racing is planned at Appleby on the bank holiday weekend of Sunday May 25. The annual horse fair begins on June 5.

Sgt Underwood has been dealing with the visitors. "We haven't received official complaints although I have been in contact with the landowner.

"This is private land and the owner has every right to contact a solicitor and begin eviction proceedings.

"The families told me they plan to leave in a couple of days."

Worried resident Wendy Heath hoped for swifter action.

She said: "What havoc will they cause during their wake and what other destruction will appear when they depart?

"How can these visitors hold the right to violate the surrounding views of Chateau Impney?."

Annoyed constituents - who first spotted the travellers at Hampton Lovett, contacted Wychavon district councillor Andrew Christian-Brookes (Con - Lovett and Claines).

Flouting regulations

He said: "We have local authority camps for travellers which they could use without flouting camping regulations."

However Mary claims these camps are usually full.

Chateau Impney spokesman Robin Carr said the situation is under investigation.