A businessman whose land has become a hot spot for travellers says he has been "badly let down" by the council and police and now feels there is no-one to help him.
John Warren, owner of Stane Park in Stanway, is angry that after just three weeks away, another group of 25 caravans has set up home on his land.
He usually uses the land for car boot sales and outdoor events, but is prevented from doing so while the travellers are there and feels Colchester Council is doing little to help.
He said: "Their presence and the mess they leave is an eyesore for local people and a disgrace to this ancient borough.
He added: "Because this land is privately owned, the police and the council are unable or unwilling to help."
A spokesman for the police confirmed the group arrived on the land at around teatime on Sunday.
He said: "We will be taking normal procedures and monitoring the situation and dealing with any problems if and when they occur in consultation with the landowner."
Colchester MP Bob Russell is supporting changes to the law relating to travellers.
He has been elected vice-chairman of a new all-party group which is calling on the Government to help local councils and travellers to establish permanent sites
Published Tuesday, May 20, 2003
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