THE same group of travellers who had set up two illegal encampments in Newport in a matter of months have now been moved off a popular park.

The group were previously evicted from Black Ash Park in Lliswerry on October 31.

Residents from across Newport had voiced their disgust at the mess strewn across it.

Following the eviction, they headed to Coronation Park.

And yesterday, Newport City Council revealed that the travellers had left the park, following a joint effort between the local authority and Gwent Police.

A spokeswoman from Newport City Council said: “Evidence was presented to the police showing that the group of travellers were the same ones who had caused criminal damage at Black Ash Park in Lliswerry.

“The illegal encampment on Coronation Park was set up after the entrance was damaged.

“CCTV footage showed individuals using chains attached to vehicles to remove concrete blocks, weighing more than half a tonne each, so they could get on this site.”

Independent councillor for Lliswerry Cllr Allan Morris welcomed the news.

He said: “I am pleased that they have left Coronation Park.

“It should not have happened in the first case.

“Now that they have left the park, questions need to be answered as to how they got into Coronation Park.”