Traveller encampment moved onto Breightmet playing field

More than a dozen caravans have camped on New House Farm playing field, near Blenheim Road.

A resident said the group arrived yesterday evening (June 4), with cars and caravans parked around the edge of the field.

Traveller encampment on Breightmet playing field (Image: NQ)

The Bolton News approached individuals at the site, where two women and their children were present.

One women said: “We’re just here for a few days.

“We won’t be here for long, and we’re not here to cause any trouble.”

Map showing the location of the traveller encampment on Breightmet playing field (Image: Apple Maps)

The Gypsy and Traveller way of life may involve travelling across the country and staying in different locations for varying periods in order to earn a living.

They are protected from discrimination under the Race Relations Act 1976 and the Human Rights Act 1998, alongside all ethnic groups with distinct cultures, languages, or values.

When Gypsies park their caravans and vehicles in public places such as car parks or on land where they should not, it is classed as an ‘unauthorised encampment’.

Traveller encampment on Breightmet playing field (Image: NQ)

All unauthorised encampments on Bolton council land are issued with a Code of Conduct for Unauthorised Encampments.

Yesterday, a traveller encampment that set up at Howe Bridge Leisure Centre in Atherton on June 3 was asked to move on by Wigan Council.

Bolton Council has been contacted for comment.