ACTION has been taken against travellers who set up on illegal sites in Colchester.

About 20 caravans pitched up on fields opposite Stanway School and the former Heath School, in Winstree Road, on Friday.

The travellers left the Stanway site on Sunday.

Stanway councillor Laura Sykes said action was taken to ensure the travellers could not return.

She said: “Two concrete blocks are going in place this week until we find a proper solution. Essex County Council is to get rid of excess vegetation and board up any damaged properties.”

Mrs Sykes added police also called on residents affected to talk to them.

Four caravans were also parked on land off Axial Way, Colchester, while a camper van and tents set up on a playing field at Knox Road, Clacton.

Tendring Council said officers visited the site, but the travellers said they would be moving on.