CONCERNS have been raised over the "destruction" of a rugby pitch in Burtonwood after the area was taken over by travellers on Friday.

It is understood that four caravans parked up on Friday at around 8pm on the site off Fir Tree Lane.

Burtonwood resident Steve Cunniffe, of Karen Close, said it was "heart-breaking" to see the damage which is being caused.

He said: "They are driving across the rugby field and are cutting it up.

"I have approached the police but they say it is a council issue.

"There are a number of teams of all ages who use the fields so it is heart-breaking to see what is happening."

Warrington Borough Council has confirmed it will be serving travellers on Sankey Valley Park a notice requiring them to leave the grounds by Tuesday, morning.

Officers visited the site today after being notified of the travellers.

A Warrington Council spokesman said: “Council officers have made a visit today to carry out welfare checks and will be returning this afternoon to serve a notice requiring them to vacate by 8am tomorrow morning.”