COUNCIL officers have served notice on a group of travellers who arrived in a playing field in Kearsley yesterday evening.

The group, which is currently settled on land behind St Stephen's Primary School in Bent Spur Road, began parking on the site at around 9pm.

Residents reported seeing 12 caravans, along with seven transit vans and two flat bed trucks, which were parked on the field.

Councillor, Mark Cunningham, who was contacted about the problems yesterday afternoon, said: "Some of the people who arrived yesterday were driving round the field on quad bikes and residents have said they are worried about damage to the property."

Cllr Cunningham said the issue had been brought to Bolton Council's Gypsy and Traveller Liaison Office, through fellow councillor Sean Hornby.

Cllr Paul Sanders, who was also contacted about the issue, said: "The advice is for residents to stay away and allow the Council Officers and Police to make communication with the group."