CONCERNS have been raised after travellers arrived at a Southampton park.

The unauthorised encampment at Veracity Ground in Merryoak, Sholing, sparked a police callout. Several caravans arrived on Sunday, May 15.

Those who live in the area have told the Daily Echo of their concerns, and a ward councillor has advised residents to avoid the park.

READ MORE: 'Don't visit the park': Travellers pitch up on Southampton recreation ground

One resident, who lives on Merryoak Green, opposite the park, has grown weary from previous encampments.

The person, who did not want to be named, said: "Every year around the same time they come back.

"They leave so much rubbish and mess behind them when they leave.

"Maybe if they tidied up after themselves we wouldn't mind as much."

Another resident, who lives along Spring Road, added: "It puts me off walking my dogs around the green.

"I worry about walking past the big groups of people, and even once they have left I worry the dogs might eat something disgusting they have left behind.

"There are meant to be measures in place to stop them from getting in, but obviously these aren't working."

However, some residents said that they were unaffected by the presence of the encampment.

READ MORE: Armed police called out as convoy of caravans try to gain access to field

"If they tidy up before they go I don't see the harm," said one woman, who regularly uses the park.

"They need to go somewhere, as long as they are clean and respectful I see no wrongdoing."

In a post on Facebook, local councillor, Eamonn Keogh, said he "would advise residents not visit the Veracity" and apologised for the "inconvenience". 

Hampshire Constabulary and Southampton City Council have confirmed they are aware of the encampment. 

A spokesperson from Hampshire Constabulary said: "We are aware of an unauthorised encampment at Veracity Ground in Merryoak, Sholing, and our officers have attended the site to assess the situation.

"We are working closely with the organisation which controls the land and Southampton City Council to seek a suitable resolution."

A spokesperson from the council added: "We are aware of an unauthorised traveller encampment that has moved on to the Veracity ground during the course of Sunday. 

"Southampton City Council will work with the police and the organisation in control of the land to ensure the situation is resolved as quickly as possible."

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