A group of travellers have set up camp in a Bolton park.

Around five caravans moved onto Leverhulme Park in Breightmet yesterday afternoon.

Bolton Council officers visited a short time after to carry out welfare checks.

An eviction notice ordering the Travellers to leave has already been issued.

Around ten vehicles can be seen in the northern part of the park near to households on Long Lane.

There are around five caravans in the park as well as numerous other vehicles.

The group was seen having barbecues in the park yesterday afternoon a short time after their arrival.

The Bolton News: There are caravans and other vehicles

One dog walker in the park said: “They have come within the last two days.

“There have been travellers in a different part of the park before but that was around four years ago, before Covid.

“I don’t know if it is the same people.”

A woman who lives nearby said: “My mum lives nearby, she messaged me at 1.30pm to say they have arrived.

“My husband is very concerned about this.

“He has reported it to the police and my neighbour has reported it to the council.

“They were having a barbecue after they arrived and they were at out in deck chairs.”

One man confirmed he had reported the matter to the council who had said they were already aware of it.

Leverhulme Park contains an athletic track and a leisure centre.

It is also home to the only Parkrun in Bolton however the course takes places away from where the travellers are currently situation.

Last October travellers set up on Kestor Street in The Haulgh.

The group was removed after a week following an eviction notice.

A Bolton Council spokesperson said: "Council officers visited yesterday for welfare checks and to issue directions to leave. "

Ward councillor Adele Warren also said she was aware of the issue and that a protocol would have to be followed.

She said: "As soon as they arrived at the park I was aware.

"I have reported it through the protocol that the council follows.

"It will go through the courts, it depends on their situation.

"It is always concerning when people are not able to access green spaces.

"I have not been made aware of any problems yet."