Responding to the progress made in the Dale Farm evictioon, Basildon Council leader Tony Ball told the Echo today: "Where we are now is where we would like to have been yesterday - residents are saying they want to leave peacefully.

"The delay was caused by violent resistance in the morning and peaceful resistance in the afternoon.

"I am comfortable with the fact those carrying out the clearance are trained professionals and will behave accordingly."

Mr Ball added: "We have made travellers aware of alternative sites ... and made offers to provide for the elderly, vulnerable and young. So far those offers have not been accepted."