A group of travellers were spotted setting up base in Manor Park in New Malden early yesterday morning (Wednesday, 8 July).

Speaking about the situation in a Facebook post, The Friends of Manor Park said: "We've been in close contact with officers and councillors. We understand that the group will be served a court order in due course, following a set process.

"This is in all likelihood not going to be fully resolved until next week.

"We have asked RBK to take steps to secure the entrance where the travellers gained access, to prevent any further vehicles entering the site. This is still in motion. We would like to see the park secured as soon as is humanly possible."

In response to The Friends, Kingston Council said: "The Council's enforcement service visited the site and confirmed the group does not have permission to remain. They were asked to leave but refused.

"A welfare check has also been carried out, as required by law.

"The occupants have stated they are attending a funeral and intend to leave within four days. We will monitor the situation while continuing with the legal process.

"A formal Notice to Leave will be served, giving the occupants 24 hours to leave before further legal action can begin.

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"If they remain on site after that period, the Council will apply to the court for a possession order. Court timescales are outside the Council's control and can take several days or, in some cases, a number of weeks.

"The Green Spaces team is checking and securing other vulnerable sites across the borough.

"Glendale staff have been asked to monitor park entrances and report any security concerns.

"Following police advice, the Council will not block the current access point while the encampment remains, as this could create conflict and would not be effective without continuous security. Any vulnerabilities at the entrance will be reviewed once the site has been cleared.

"The planned PlayZone consultation sessions on 16 and 18 July are currently expected to go ahead. If this changes, residents will be informed."

Nub News has contacted Kingston Council for more information.