TRAVELLERS have set up camp on private land in the Holme Valley.

About 13 caravans, scrap wagons, pickup trucks and other vehicles have moved on to fields off New Mill Road, Honley.

It is thought the travellers entered the site after they reconnoitred the field the day before.

A gate had been left open so members of athletics club Holmfirth Harriers could use the field as a car park.

The land is opposite the Harriers’ Neiley Playing Fields, which houses their club house and sports field.

The travellers were still on the land, owned by Norwood Instruments, yesterday.

The move follows similar problems in Mirfield, where more than 30 travellers set up camp in Knowl Park.

Meanwhile it is thought homes in Honley and Brockholes have been targeted by leaflets from travellers offering gardening and tree pruning services.

It is believed Norwood Instruments, who make scientific machinery and instruments, have applied for a court order to remove the travellers from their land.

The hearing is expected to take place at Dewsbury County Court and may be heard later today.

One neighbour said: “They said they’d be gone by yesterday, but they’re still here today. They’re trespassing and making a mess.

“We’re not very happy to have them. There’s rubbish piling up.”