Travellers who pitched up on school field are handed deadline to leave

A GROUP of travellers who pitched up on a Derbyshire school’s sports field have been told to leave by tomorrow, or face eviction.

Thirteen caravans have been camped on a PE area owned by Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Ashbourne since Tuesday, and the group has been given an ultimatum by High Court enforcement officers.

Liaising between the school and senior members of the group, the officers struck a deal to prevent a forced eviction attempt at noon yesterday, on condition the travellers leave by 6pm tomorrow.

Enforcement officer Phil Roberts said the group has been amicable with this suggestion.

Mr Roberts said: “If they do not leave, nothing will happen on Sunday evening but if they are still here I’ll make arrangements for us to re-attend on Monday and get it enforced.

“The ideal scenario is that they’ll leave peacefully. My best guess is they probably will go, based on conversations I have had with them.”

Police have been patrolling the area in vehicles during the past few days, and a spokesman says officers have been following up reports of anti-social behaviour in the town.

“The force was called to reports that a number of travellers had arrived on playing fields at the QEGS site on August 24.

“Officers attended that evening and then again the following day.

“On Thursday, a number of reports of anti-social behaviour were reported to the force. Officers will be supporting the bailiffs should the need arise.”

QEGS head teacher Scott Garrity said: “We have instructed enforcement officers and, together with the police, they are now managing the situation with deadlines and if necessary, powers of removal.”