TRAVELLERS remain on Swindon council land five days after they set up camp.

The incursion of a number of caravans in Tovey Road has caused concern for people living in the area, who have complained about youths on scrambler bikes and malnourished dogs.

A white horse said to belong to the travellers is also grazing on the opposite side of the green.

Swindon Advertiser: Pic: NUJ photographer L C Pic: NUJ photographer L C

One resident who did not wish to be named said: “I’m very upset to see the dogs are skin and bone.

“Many of my local friends have commented about the state of their dogs, we are dog lovers so we are upset about it.

“Police just pass by on Tovey Road without getting out of their cars.

“I use that space to walk my dogs but I’m not going to take any chances.”

Swindon Borough Council has confirmed that the group has been issued with an eviction notice by Wiltshire Police telling them to leave by Thursday at midday.

A spokesperson for the council said: “We have been working closely with Wiltshire Police, local residents and the group to get the situation resolved as quickly as possible.

“Wiltshire Police has already visited the site and served a notice to the group instructing them to leave by midday on August 4. If they do not, further action will be taken.

“Once the group has left the site, our team will visit and organise a clean-up where necessary.”

Wiltshire Police has confirmed officers will be attending to enforce the eviction notice.

A spokesperson for the constabulary said: "Officers attended today and notice was served to the group to leave by midday tomorrow.

"Officers will attend tomorrow to ensure this is adhered to."