Residents crowded into a meeting to voice concerns about a planning application submitted by two travelling families in Fordingbridge.

Some 120 residents packed Fordingbridge Town Hall to discuss the change of use of an agricultural field in Marl Lane to residential use.

Letters of protest have been sent to New Forest District Council and more than 100 objections have been lodged on the council’s website.

Felix and Miles Connors, who own the land, have been living at the site with their families since May. Their plans include an amenity block, stables and grazing for horses.

Residents fear that if planning is granted it will set a precedent and more caravans may follow.

Fordingbridge Town Council has written to New Forest District Council recommending refusal.