TRAVELLERS who set up camp near a group of upmarket homes could be served an eviction order in court today.

About 30 caravans had moved on to an open space beside Fair Oak Road by last Wednesday.

Police were called in when nearby residents were involved in a stand-off with the travellers from the site by Blackberry Drive.

Now landowners Persimmon Homes have confirmed a hearing has been set for today at Southampton County Court.

Managing director Allen Smith said: "Persimmon's case to have the travellers evicted will be heard by the court today and notice of this hearing was served on the travellers last Thursday.

"If the court finds in our favour, we will make the necessary arrangements for an eviction order to be served in line with the date specified by the court."

Meanwhile local councillors have been urging residents not to take the law into their own hands. Councillor Philip Spearey said: "Clearly it's been a problem for the people of Blackberry Drive because the travellers were very close to the homes and the area simply isn't designed for that kind of use.

"We know local residents have been upset about them and one or two have taken the law into their own hands which was clearly not a sensible thing to do.

"But I support them in wanting to get the problem resolved and get them moved on as soon as possible.

"Obviously I hope the move to get them removed will be successful."

The estimated cost of clearing up behind a group of travellers who recently left a site at Stoneham Lane was in excess of £15,000. This will come straight out of Hampshire residents pockets.

Another small encampment has been set up at Knowle Hill.