SHOCKWAVES swept through the little campsite community at Holmsley as news spread about the tragedy yesterday morning.

Many people had not been told what had happened and the strong police presence throughout the day did nothing to lift the increasingly sombre mood.

One camper, George Yapp, visiting from the Heathrow area said: “There was a lot of noise. Everyone is very shocked.”

Other families heading out for the day by car or bike expressed sadness and disbelief, with many choosing to pack and leave to either go home or try and find an alternative site.

Cheryl Nunn, from Bedford, who was staying with family, said: “I just heard this horn going off and then heard screaming.

“It was a woman screaming and she was saying something as she was screaming. I didn’t hear what it was.

“I then saw police cars coming and I saw the blue lights flashing.

“I saw the ambulance come in.”

Yesterday, while many families chose to go out, others stayed, wanting to know more of what had happened.

One woman, who did not want to be named, said: “It’s so sad – but we haven’t been told very much at all.

“It’s causing more panic and upset than if we had all the information.

“People are a bit worried and want to leave. I don’t know if we’ll stay.”