Cromer in ‘lockdown’ as travellers cause havoc

A SeASIDe town went into ‘lockdown’ as a group of anti- social travellers caused pubs and bars to shut early.

The shops that stayed open refused to serve tourists, while a nearby music festival had to close early.

Amid the chaos in Cromer, Norfolk, there were rumours of a stabbing, although police denied one had taken place.

So many places shut that the resort resembled a ghost town on Saturday night as police patrols were stepped up.

The extraordinary scenes began after a group of travellers in 23 caravans set up camp on Friday in a car park.

Thefts were reported at three shops and two pubs. Officers had to attend Cromer Social Club at 11.30pm after a large group refused to leave. Yesterday morning the Blue Sky Cafe, opposite the car park, had to board up its premises after 40 people entered and stole beer. Owner Trystan Taylor said: ‘They all came in at once. The kids were just feral and grabbing things.’

Morrisons was forced to close its filling station after a theft, while items were also stolen from a pitch and putt course.

Cromer Pier shut its theatre bar despite having a sell-out audience. The Wellington Pub said it had to shut ‘due to the severity of events that have escalated in town last night’. In nearby Sheringham, the first day of a charity music festival, Unplugged by the Sea, ended early. A spokesman said: ‘This was a precautionary measure.’

The lack of entertainment in town led to a large group walking to Seacroft caravan and campsite in Cromer. Police were called after they refused to leave the private bar.

Tourists and locals shared their concerns online, with one resident tweeting: ‘hadn’t expected to feel frightened in this little seaside town!’ Julian Smith wrote: ‘All going off in Cromer, place is on lockdown.’ Thain Fledd said: ‘It’s like a zombie apocalypse.’

Daniel hickling, who works at Little Gems rock Shop, complained: ‘I am £950 down in stolen stock in one day! More than in my 17 years of trading.’ One resident, who asked not to be named, said: ‘At times it was like a warzone. A rabble were going from pub to pub trying to get in and shaking doors. I’ve never known anything like it.’ North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb said: ‘ We need to understand what happened and ensure anyone responsible is brought to book.’

The travellers finally moved on yesterday afternoon after they were served with eviction notices. Police reported no arrests.

Superintendent Malcolm Cooke said: ‘I can assure residents these incidents have been dealt with appropriately.’