Travellers set up camp off Cricketers Way in Westhoughton

Five caravans have camped off Pavilion Square, near Cricketers Way.

The car park at 1 Pavilion Square, where the caravans are currently located, serves as a based for multiple companies.

Vehicles not believed to be associated with the encampment were parked on the opposite side of the car park, where spaces remained available.

It is understood that the travellers arrived on Sunday, March 22, although it has not been confirmed how long they intend to stay.

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

The women politely declined to comment on their presence on the privately owned land.

The camp comes after Travellers moved their caravans onto Tesco car park in Horwich late last week.

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.

Gypsies and Travellers have rights, as do the owners of land where unauthorised encampments take place.

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.

If an encampment is on private land, it is typically the responsibility of the landowner to take steps to seek eviction.