TRAVELLERS have returned to Hove seafront for the fifth time this year.

Caravans pitched up at Western Lawns, near the King Alfred Leisure Centre, over the weekend – the latest in a number of occasions in recent weeks they have moved on to the site.

The Argus has reported how the travellers setting up camp on the lawns has angered traders and residents who have been affected by it.

Read more: 'Terrified' trader 'harassed, abused and intimidated' by travellers

Read more: Dirty nappies, sanitary products and dog poo – park trashed after travellers set up camp​

It appears they get through by knocking down some of the bollards that are in place to stop vehicles getting on to the grass.

A Brighton and Hove City Council spokesman said it is the fifth time it has happened this year.

He added: “There are four trailers today. We have visited the site and have applied to the Police for a Section 62a notice to direct the group to the council’s transit site at Horsdean. The request is currently being processed.”

Previously the Argus reported how dirty nappies, rubbish and faeces had been left behind when travellers left the lawns in Hove.

Nick Davis, owner of Spitfire Cafe, said at the time that the litter left behind had hurt his business.

“We’ve had this problem for years," he said.

"I’ve been here over fifteen years and it’s the same every time."

He said other businesses in the area had suffered as well.

After a previous group left, he said: “We experienced harassment, intimidation, verbal abuse and attempted theft."