POLICE have led action to evict an unauthorised traveller encampment from a Bournemouth park.

A group of travellers had occupied land in the car park at King's Park, near Vitality Stadium, since Tuesday, April 12.

The unauthorised encampment included at least six caravans.

After experiencing a similar situation last year, the organisers of Bournemouth Parkrun cancelled this Saturday's event.

Following liaison with partner agencies and those present, Dorset Police issued an eviction notice on Wednesday, April 13, under section 61 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, requiring the group to leave the site.

Officers continued to monitor situation and worked with BCP Council to ensure the notice was complied with.

The group left the area by around 3pm on Thursday, April 14.

Superintendent Heather Dixey, of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Local Policing area, said: “We understand that there has been concern among residents and members of the wider community about this incident and are aware that the Park Run, which normally takes place at Kings Park was cancelled by organisers.

“I would like to reassure the public that we took robust action against this unauthorised traveller encampment to ensure the park could be used again by the community. We would like to thank them for their patience while this process took place.”

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