TRAVELLERS have set up camp in Southend’s Priory Park.

A spokesperson from Southend council stated it was likely that they drove into the park through the vehicle access gates off of Victoria Avenue.

They are parked up near the playground.

Kirsty Rogerson, 34, from Boston Avenue, was concerned the travellers would affect the park's reputation.

"The park means a lot to me. My grandma used to take me to there all the time and now I take my kids there.I contacted the council.

"My main concern is the damage they cause and rubbish they will leave behind."

Tino Callaghan, an Independent councillor from the Prittlewell ward, commented: "Whether you're a traveller or anybody else you should not be allowed to pitch up in a recreational area. There are ongoing issues in Southend and Basildon, they're just lawless."

David Garston, a conservative councillor from the same ward, commented: "As for as I know this has not happened to Priory Park before. I suspect they got in through the gates we're repairing in preparation for the park's 125th anniversary celebrations."

A council spokesman said: “We are aware of a group of travellers occupying our land without our consent and have served legal notice on them. If they do not observe this notice, we will start formal legal action through the courts to move them on.”