SOME 35 caravans have set up camp on a field next to a leisure centre. 

Police say they were alerted to the unauthorised encampment in Eastleigh just before 7pm on Monday. 

A total of 35 caravans and 40 vehicles are said to have descended on the field behind Places Leisure off Passfield Avenue. 

Update: Eastleigh paddling pool forced to shut as travellers seen 'washing in it'

Officers have since visited the site and say they are continuing to monitor the situation. 

The force is also working closely with the landowners and its groups in the area to "seek a suitable resolution". 

The leader of Eastleigh Borough Council, Keith House, recently hit out at the "expensive legal process" to remove travellers from land. 

Two other unauthorised encampments at Chalcroft Way and Fleming Park set back the council around £5,000. 

Eastleigh Borough Council has been approached for comment. 

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News