A CLEAN-up operation estimated at tens of thousands of pounds will be needed after a group of travellers left a trail of destruction at a business park.

More than 50 caravans camped illegally on private property in Wassage Way on the Hampton Lovett Industrial Estate earlier in the week.

The majority of the travellers has now moved on to a field opposite the Chateau Impney hotel in Dodderhill.

But reminders of their existence are still visible for businesses in Hampton Lovett.

Human excrement and litter, including gas canisters, shoes, paper bags and clothes have been left behind.

"They have caused utter destruction to the area," said Paul Cole, secretary for property investment firm Revelan.

"We were about to apply for an injunction to move them on when we were told that the majority of the caravans were already gone.

"What they have left though is just disgusting. There is human excrement, rubbish and debris all over the place.

"The travellers set up camp on our land back in January and again they left as we were about to apply for an injunction.

"The clean-up cost then was £2,000. This time they have affected other firms too and I understand that they have left us with more of a mess, hence the costs will be much higher."

Another firm affected is reproduction furniture business GT Rackshaw, which will have to put up new fencing and clear out a barn, which was used as a public lavatory.

"We have been through hell and back because of these travellers," said general manager Keith Hughes.

"They have completely destroyed our fence, cutting it in about 14 different places, and have defecated in a barn used to store timber.

"We think it will cost us thousands to put everything right. And, from what I have heard, others are facing similar bills."

Quillgold Pension Scheme, also on Wassage Way, had two metal barriers broken and has been left with all sorts of waste to clear up.

"This is the fourth time since February we have been affected," said trustee Ian Brazier.

"There must have been 30 caravans on our land alone.

"They broke through two metal barriers to get onto the site and the mess they have left has to be seen to be believed. It's disgusting."

An Evening News reporter visited the travellers' site, but no one was available to comment.

Businesses on the estate have arranged a special meeting for tonight at Hampton Lovett village hall to discuss the problem.