A GROUP of travellers have pitched up a popular park.

The group are believed to have arrived at Swan Mead Park in Basildon over the weekend.

The last time travellers used the park, in August, the playground was left "beyond repair."

According to leaked emails from Essex County Council, which the Echo has seen, the countywide traveller unit is "aware" of the encampment off Clay Hill Road.

Bosses say it could take up to 10 days to remove the caravans from the park.

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Basildon Council was contacted for comment.

More to follow.