A group of Travellers has set up an unauthorised encampment on a Chester park playing field.

The encampment on council-owned land consists of 10 caravans, Cheshire West and Chester Council has reported from its update on Wednesday, July 10.

It is understood entry to the playing field has been forced by breaking a wooden access gate.

As of Wednesday afternoon, police were due to attend the site, the local authority added.

Police powers can enable senior officers to direct those on an unauthorised encampment to leave the land if the encampment consists of six or more vehicles, and/or if any member of the encampment has caused 'damage, disruption or distress'.

Failure to comply is an offence, as is returning to the site within 12 months of being directed to leave by police. On the latter, police have the power to seize vehicles.