RESIDENTS are to ask town hall bosses to protect their playing fields after travellers illegally set up camp there several times over the summer.

At a public meeting, neighbours voiced fears about the possibility of Hulton Lane playing fields, in Daubhill, becoming a regular spot for travellers.

More than 50 people attended the meeting at Deane Islamic Centre, chaired by Hulton ward councillor Darren Whitehead.

Police officers also spoke to the residents, explaining about their powers, policy and best practice in relation to traveller trespass.

Cllr Whitehead said: “Residents were deeply concerned at the prospect of the fields becoming regularly used by travellers.

"It was agreed to approach and press the council for funding for this purpose.

“This is an issue about which residents feel very strongly. The fact that the fields have recently been improved at considerable expense by the council, which residents recognised as a positive benefit to the area, was seen as a good reason to protect the council's investment."

A fence already partially covers the boundary and residents feel that extending it is possible.

It was also suggested that the cost of clearing up after travellers could be saved if the fields were secured.

Several sporting groups use the fields, but are unable to access them when travellers pitch up.

Cllr Whitehead added: “No one was against the traveller community as such and the debate was measured and focused.

“What residents are opposed to is the misuse of a valuable local resource and a sense of intimidation which prevents locals properly using the fields.

“Anti-social behaviour by travellers, such as motorbike and quad bike riding at all hours, was also raised as an issue by residents.”