A LEISURE centre was forced to close its doors temporarily after a group of travellers set up camp at the site.

Travellers moved on to the grounds of Bridport Leisure Centre on Monday evening, forcing bosses to close the venue to users on Tuesday.

Police were called and moved on the travellers, allowing the leisure centre, in Brewery Fields, Skilling Hill Road, to reopen around 1pm yesterday.

The centre shared an update on its social media pages on Monday, May 31 stating that the centre was having to close due to 'reasons beyond the leisure centre's control'.

It was later confirmed that the closure was a result of an unauthorised traveller encampment on the grounds.

A spokesman for the Bridport Leisure Centre said: “It's mostly just a shame for the community that they weren't able to access the facilities, especially after being unable to for so long during the lockdown.

"We didn't feel like we could safely manage the people coming in and out of the building, whilst following our strict Covid protocols so we made the decision to close until police dealt with issue.

"We are sorry for any inconvenience that this has caused any of our members, especially if they have missed any notifications or e-mails via social media."

The spokesman said that the travellers left the site in relatively good condition and they just needed to clear up a small amount of - mostly bagged up - rubbish after they left.

Dorset Police received a report of the unauthorised traveller encampment at the Bridport Leisure Centre at around 7.50am on Tuesday, June 1.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "Following discussion with the local authority and the leisure centre, officers have given the group a direction under section 62 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act to vacate the site.

"Officers have been carrying out regular patrols in the area and have been liaising with those present as well as the local community.

"We will continue to liaise with the council to monitor the situation and will be taking appropriate further action as required."

Bridport Leisure Centre is now open as usual and is offering refunds to anyone whose scheduled classes were affected by the disruption. For further information, visit www.facebook.com/bridportleisurecentre/