A GROUP of travellers is thought to have settled on a Bury park.

Caravans are reported to have set up camp on Whitehead Park with residents saying that yesterday the group had put out clothes and sheets on the perimeter fence.

It is understood that the travellers have been on the park for several days.

Moves have been made by Bury Council asking them to move on.

Councillor Jackie Harris, who represents Church ward, told the Bury Times that concerns about the travellers had been raised by residents.

However she said that she has spoken with the group who told her they would be moving on from the site in the next few days.

Cllr Harris added: "I will give them the benefit of the doubt because if you go in heavy handed that can be counter productive.

"If they are still there by Monday I will speak with them again."

A spokesman for Bury Croquet Club, which is adjoined to the park, said that they have "not had any problems" with the travellers.

A Bury Council spokesman said: "We are aware of the encampment and have started the eviction procedure.

"However, the travellers have welfare needs which are being looked into by a neighbouring council (Rochdale Council ) before we can proceed through the Court."