Conservative Councillors in Benfleet worked in partnership with the community to send a resounding message that they were not welcome to travellers who had occupied South Benfleet playing fields.

The travellers gained access to the playing fields on Friday morning and Councillors quickly arranged an emergency public meeting, held at Benfleet Methodist Church and helped residents distribute hundreds of leaflets in the affected area.

St Marys Ward Councillor Alf Partridge said “This was a perfect example of Councillors working hand in glove with the community to protect our area. The playing fields that the travellers occupied are an important asset to South Benfleet and not suitable for caravans”

“I am sure that the strength of feeling from locals played an important part in forcing the travellers to move on so quickly. This is a real victory for people power!”

Councillor Partridge joined fellow Councillors Andrew Sheldon, David Cross and Norman Smith on site this morning armed with black bags to clear up the mess left.