A MAJOR round-the-clock security operation has swung into action amid fears that travellers could invade King's Park this Christmas.

With memories of the devastation caused in December 2001 and the £150,000 clean-up bill still fresh in their minds, the council has joined forces with police to prevent a repeat invasion. It has been revealed that security guards will be patrolling King's Park round-the-clock during the run-up to December 25.

The borough's acting traveller liaison officer Paul Pitkin said: "We are once again working closely with the police to ensure there are no unauthorised encampments in King's Park, and throughout the borough, over the Christmas period.

"We will be providing a high visibility council presence at the park. Community parks officers will also be on hand to support security guards.

"We hope the measures which have been put in place will prevent any unauthorised encampments and ensure that the park is available for everyone to enjoy over Christmas and the New Year."

Prompt action by Christ-church council has already driven a group of travellers away within 24 hours of setting up camp in the town. The first caravan moved on to the car park behind the borough council offices in Bridge Street on Monday evening. By mid-morning yesterday there were four more caravans and a large brand new luxury motor-home.

One traveller told the Daily Echo: "We're going to be here for two months."

But after lunch council officers were celebrating after the group pulled out.

Just after 2.30pm yesterday the council's chief executive Mike Turvey said: "They're just leaving now. It's good news."

Extra security measures were being put into place to protect car parks and other vulnerable sites in the town overnight.

Deputy council leader Councillor John Lofts said: "I hope they're well gone. I'm sure the town wishes them a very merry Christmas - somewhere else."

First published: December 22