A SWINDON beauty spot was left in a 'shocking' state after it was used as a dumping ground by travellers, it has been claimed.

Caravans descended on Shaw Forest as a group set up camp in West Swindon for several days.

After they had left neighbours and park users were disgusted to discover household and garden waste, as well as general rubbish had been left behind. 

Read: Shaw Forest filled with piles of rubbish as travellers move on

Swindon Advertiser:

Ward councillor Keith Williams initially reported that the group "were co-operative" but now has shared his anger at the damage done to the land. 

He said: “It is shocking and disappointing that tax payers are once again having to pay for the clean up and repairs as a result of inadequate legislation to deal with this sort of criminal behaviour.

Swindon Borough Council has since stressed the space will be left in a 'clean and tidy state'.

Coun Williams added: "We will ensure the relevant repairs are made, but as it stands nothing short of fortifying our parks and open spaces can prevent trespass like this"

"If groups left their rubbish bagged for collection and didn’t defecate in the bushes residents would be more tolerant.”