TRAVELLERS who set up camp outside a Basingstoke polling station have been moved on by police.

The group arrived shortly after 5pm yesterday at Viables Craft Centre, in the Harrow Way.

Police officers visited shortly after 5.20pm after being informed that eight traveller vehicles had parked up in the centre.

They have now moved the group on using Section 61 powers of the Criminal Justice Public Order Act 1994, which can be used by police if the group are causing a significant nuisance, have caused unacceptable levels of damage to land or property to gain entry or remain, or there is a danger to travellers, such as environmental factors.

Ben Taylor, acting chief inspector, said: "In using these powers, Hampshire Constabulary will always ensure that we balance the needs and rights of all our communities with actions that are proportionate, lawful and necessary.

"I hope this swift action to move the travellers on from locations that were unsuitable will convey to all sections of the community that a robust approach will be taken against encampments within legal parameters.

"We will continue to work closely with partner agencies and private landowners to manage unauthorised encampments and identify repeat locations where there has been criminality or disorder in order to target harden these sites."