TRAVELLERS who have pitched up in Haresfinch Park have been given notice to leave, according to the ward councillor.

At least six caravans could be seen on the park on Wednesday evening, with reports of more joining the group on Thursday.

Cllr Paul Lynch, Moss Bank ward councillor, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that a section 77 notice was issued on Thursday morning.

A section 77 notice gives local authorities the power to direct individuals to remove their vehicles and belongings and to leave highway land, as soon as reasonably practical.

“A section 77 has now been served,” Cllr Lynch said.

“What that means is they have 24 hours to vacate and if they don’t then we will apply for a court hearing to get them out.

“That court hearing will be done as quickly as the court system will allow.”

Cllr Lynch said he has spoken to the police, who will be “keeping an eye” on the site for anti-social behaviour and other criminal activity.

The Moss Bank councillor said he has been contacted by numerous residents who have asked what action the council is taking.

A St Helens Council spokesman said the council is now taking the “necessary legal steps” to remove the travellers.

The spokesman said: “The council is aware of the issue and is taking the necessary legal steps to have the group removed from Haresfinch Park as soon as possible.”

Cllr Lynch tweeted last night that he was speaking with fellow ward councillors, council officers and Mersey Police regarding Haresfinch Park.

Just before 9.40am this morning, he tweeted again saying that a section 77 notice will be issued to the travellers today.