Traveller caravans have pitched up on the site of a beloved community centre.

The encampment, which is at Laindon Community Centre, is believed to have arrived yesterday (January 31) at around 11.30am.

Residents say there are three caravans and two large vans in the site car park, which is based on Aston Road.

But according to council bosses, action is being taken to swiftly move them on.

It is suspected the caravans could be the same group which left the Rayleigh Leisure Centre on Sunday.

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Basildon Council leader Gavin Callaghan, said: "I’m aware of the issue of caravans on the site of the Laindon Community Centre.

"The council is instructing the Essex Traveller Unit and police to take action to restore the car park."