Hampshire Police have issued an update after police instructed a group of travellers to leave a park in Fareham.

On Monday, officers in Fareham served a notice under Section 61 of the Criminal Justice & Public Order Act, requesting the travellers leave Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Park by 11am. 

Police said that the force had been working with Fareham Borough Council, in order to best serve the needs of Fareham residents and the traveller community. 

The force has also said that police will be carrying out reassurance patrols throughout the day so residents may see an increased presence.

Hampshire Constabulary has now issued an update as to why these powers were necessary and confirmed that the traveller group has now left the scene. 

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A spokesperson for the force said: "Police have served a notice to leave on an unauthorised encampment in Jubilee Park under Section 61 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

"This enables police to direct individuals to leave the land and remove any vehicles or property they have with them. Failure to comply is a criminal offence. The occupants have subsequently left the site.

"Decisions such as these are carefully considered, and these powers can be considered if it is deemed that an unauthorised encampment has caused damage, or disruption or distress to the community.

"In circumstances where we utilise such powers, we will always ensure that we balance the needs and rights of all our communities with actions that are proportionate, lawful and necessary.

"We work closely with landowners and our partners to ensure that a robust approach is taken against encampments within legal parameters.

The police also confirmed that the encampment was moved on without incident.