Villagers in Pymoor near Ely blocked off their recreation ground to prevent a ‘travellers encampment’ similar to those that blighted a rugby club at Ely and a children’s play park in Witchford.
Large trailers have been placed across the entrance to the Pymoor rec and although the village hopes most events planned there can still go ahead, a scheduled coffee morning was cancelled.
“We hope to re-open the car park soon,” one villager posted to a local Facebook page.
“If you are parking on the road to use the club and field please park responsibly.”
The move was sparked by concerns of encampments at Ely rugby club who had to cancel training sessions while travellers camped on their fields.
“The club would like to extend its sincerest thanks to King’s Ely for providing a place for our teams to train during the recent unauthorised encampment at the club,” said a club spokesperson.
“They have been a great support, and ensured preparations for the season ahead were not impacted too heavily from the unwanted setback we have been experiencing.”
In Witchford there have been claims that travellers camped there “smeared human faeces all over the children’s play park, done donuts on the sports field and smashed fences”.
A GoFundMe appeal has been launched in Witchford to repair the damage.
“On Friday 26th July 2024, our recreation ground was broken into by a group of unpleasant travellers and their caravans,” says the GoFundMe appeal.
“Damage has been caused, concern spread across the village for their safety, and a hefty bill for the removal of said visitors. The cost of this will be in the thousands.”
Villagers say estimate the repair bill to be £6,000 – so far it has received 177 separate donations totalling £5,250.
The travellers left the village on Monday.
