TRAVELLERS have returned to Riverside Park for a third time in the space of a month after being “verbally requested” to leave by Southampton City Council.

The new encampment was spotted by a passer-by on Monday morning, who noticed a convoy of cars and caravans were sheltering along the tree line.

Travellers were originally spotted in the Southampton park on June 7, before departing and then returning for a second time on June 27.

Before leaving the park a second time, Southampton City Council “verbally requested” the travellers to leave Riverside Park, stating: “The occupants have been verbally requested to leave the site.

“A report has been submitted to a senior manager at Southampton City Council, with recommendations on how the site should be dealt with.”

Daily Echo:

READ MORE: Traveller encampment 'verbally requested' to leave

Nearby residents addressed their concerns regarding the travellers last month at a Police and Community Together Meeting, with Bitterne Park resident, Andrew Horton commenting: “People want to feel safe and feel like they can use the recreational facilities safely and without intimidation.”