TRAVELLERS who pitched up on the approach to Farnworth Cemetery have been served with a notice to leave the site within 24 hours.

The group arrived in Lower Rawson Street at about 6.45 pm on Tuesday evening, and parked on the verges approaching the cemetery.

Labour ward councillor Jean Gillies reported their arrival to police. Farnworth and Kearsley First councillors Paul Sanders and Maureen Flitcroft were at the site soon after.

Bolton Council’s gypsy liaison officer is understood to have yesterday served a direction to move on from the site within 24 hours.

And he later returned to carry out a welfare check on the site, in line with procedure.

Cllr Sanders said it was now a case of for procedural matters to take effect.

He said: “Myself and Cllr Flitcroft were at the scene again on Wednesday morning and were talking to residents who were very concerned about the situation and sensitivities around the encampment, with it being so close to the cemetery.

“Police have also been there providing a presence at the site.”

If the travellers fail to comply with the order, the council will then apply for a court order to move them on with immediate effect.

Travellers also pitched up at Fern Street in May.