A group of travellers who set up camp in Tooting Bec Lido’s car park yesterday have been moved on this morning thanks to council bylaws.

Wandsworth Times:

The group were told they had 24 hours to move or face prosecution and have their vehicles towed away.

They were served with notices to depart by lunchtime today. Camping overnight on Tooting Common, without authorisation from the council, is a criminal offence under bylaws.

The council provides an official traveller site in Trewint Street, Earlsfield.

Environment spokesman Councillor Jonathan Cook said: “I am delighted that the swift and firm action we took to protect the common has paid off and that these travellers have been quickly sent on their way.

“Last night we placed officers from our parks police team in the car park to make sure that no other vehicles joined this unlawful camp.

"As a result of this firm action these travellers have been moved on very quickly and parking spaces at the lido car park are again available for people who simply want to visit Tooting Common.”

The council has a 24-hour emergency response team looking after its land, available on 0208 871 6900.