A GROUP of travellers who pitched up at a Canvey leisure centre must leave today or they will face court action, say council bosses.

At least three caravans and other vehicles were seen at the Waterside Farm Leisure Centre, Canvey at about 8pm on Sunday night.

Residents posted on Facebook with images of the caravans and more than 50 people joined the discussion about the travellers parked outside the leisure centre.

Some residents rushed to defend the travellers and hit back at others who were criticising them.

Others were raising concerns about the car park being left open.

Council bosses say the travellers have been ordered to leave and must do so by today.

David Thomas, Canvey Independent councillor for Canvey West, said: "I know the council is aware and is dealing with this now.

"There were about three caravans and I think they arrived on Sunday. The concern is they will go else where on Canvey as travellers have done this before.

"It seems to be where we cannot lock the gates such as Waterside Farm Leisure Centre. I am unsure how long it will take for them to leave but we have to follow the procedure

"The centre is still open and I know residents are talking about it on Facebook. I hope it's dealt with quick."

He said it's all in hand and the council has been quick to act so far. James Cutler, Tory councillor for St Mary's said he's been checking other gates at open spaces.

He said: "As a councillor for St Mary's Ward I have also been around and checked all the gates and height barriers at entrances to Richmond Park, Benfleet Playing Fields, and the Arthur Stevens Memorial Playing Field are locked and secure for when they move on.

"I have written to the chief executive of the council asking for them to remain locked until the travellers have left the borough."

Council bosses say they are working to move on the travellers as soon as possible.

A spokesman for Castle Point Council said: "Essex County Council Traveller Unit (ECTU)have served a Direction to leave on the Travellers. If they have not left by tomorrow they will proceed with a Court listing."

An Essex Countywide Traveller Unit spokesman said: "The Essex Countywide Traveller Unit is currently aware of this encampment and is managing it through the local authority powers available to the unit."