A GROUP of travellers moved onto a popular community farm last night.

Locals were confronted by around five vehicles and the travellers started a campfire in one of the fields at Tumbledown Farm off Radipole Lane.

Police and fire crews were called and persuaded the group to leave.

One resident said: "A woman was going for a walk and came across them. She asked them to leave but they refused.

"They started a fire and had a horse in the field as well.

"There were plenty of worried people about who own land as apparently gates were blocked.

"There were five caravans in the field and allegedly they threatened to cut the hedge.

"It seems the police persuaded them to leave and they drove off escorted by a police car.

"I heard they were asked to move to the park and ride site."

Tumbledown is a 27-acre former working farm owned by Weymouth Town Council.

The council is developing the land into a community asset by 'producing and selling local fruit and veg, supporting people with volunteering and learning opportunities, and protecting our local environment for the benefit of our community'.