Damage has been uncovered at a park after travellers were moved on from the site, a councillor has said.

Fareham Borough Council has spoken out after a group of travellers illegally gained entry to Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Park.

The authority has said it is pleased to announce that the recent illegal encampment on Gosport Road has now been removed.

People in around 14 vehicles, including eight caravans, gained illegal entry to the site on Friday, May 10, causing damage to the site’s entry barriers.

They were served with a letter to quit by council enforcement officers on Saturday morning.

Fareham Borough Council said it worked closely with Hampshire police, which used its powers to serve a notice to leave.

Cllr Joanne Burton, Executive Member for Health and Public Protection, said: "I am delighted that our enforcement officers were able to work so quickly and efficiently with the police and legal services to ensure that the travellers were moved on.

"We will now look to address the damage caused and clear the site of any waste that has been illegally discarded and apologise to residents for any inconvenience.”

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary added: "Police have served a notice to leave on an unauthorised encampment in Jubilee Park under Section 61 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

"This enables police to direct individuals to leave the land and remove any vehicles or property they have with them.

"Failure to comply is a criminal offence. The occupants have subsequently left the site.

"Decisions such as these are carefully considered, and these powers can be considered if it is deemed that an unauthorised encampment has caused damage, or disruption or distress to the community.

"In circumstances where we utilise such powers, we will always ensure that we balance the needs and rights of all our communities with actions that are proportionate, lawful and necessary.

"We work closely with landowners and our partners to ensure that a robust approach is taken against encampments within legal parameters."