A court hearing this morning is set to determine the next steps to move on an illegal traveller encampment from the car park of a well-loved beauty spot.

It comes after 11 caravans set up camp at Cherry Orchard Country Park in Rochford last Tuesday (August 18).

The travellers picked the lock on the height barrier to gain access, but council bosses have since confirmed that it had not been damaged. 

Yesterday afternoon Essex Police confirmed that the encampment remained on site, but that Rochford Council had already started carrying out legal powers to move them on, given that they are the land owner.

A spokesperson from Rochford Council, said: "A summons was issued yesterday morning, and a court hearing is set to be held today at 9am.

"There have been no issues reported whilst the group have been there, however the normal procedure to move them on has now resumed with Covid secure measures."