TRAVELLERS who illegally set up camp in a park have an “ancient right” to use the land, according to an MP.

Caravans moved on to Wild Park in Brighton this week.

They left the area yesterday morning after the city council and the police visited the site on Thursday and served them with a warning notice.

Labour MP for Kemptown Lloyd Russell-Moyle said: “With all these issues concerning travellers and use of public space, it’s about balance.

“Firstly, it’s about making sure the general public can access the park undisturbed and use the playing fields.

“Secondly, it’s about making sure the council provides enough accommodation for travellers.

“The travellers have an ancient right to use the land because they have been using it since before it became Wild Park. However, this balance is difficult to achieve if the council doesn’t have permanent sites set up for travellers.

“If there is space available, I think the council should consider designating them as accommodation sites for travellers. This is for travellers from all different ethnicities and backgrounds.”

Mr Russell-Moyle said setting up permanent sites would reduce trespassing.

He said: “If there are decent provisions, this will prevent illegal encampment on protected lands.

“In a broader perspective people have rights to enjoy themselves, but at the same time not break the law.”

A Brighton and Hove City Council council spokeswoman said: “The travellers were served a warning notice as the site is protected by the city’s Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) scheme.

“They left yesterday morning and city parks have re-secured the site. No further action was needed.”