TRAVELLERS who took up residence in the Lords Meadow Leisure Centre car park in Crediton on Tuesday, July 30 have today, Thursday, August 1, left the site.

This has enabled the Leisure Centre to re-open from this morning.

The car park was left in a clean and tidy manner unlike some previous visits by members of the travelling community.

Mid Devon Leisure said on social media this morning: “Great News! Lords Meadow will ready to welcome you back from 8am this morning.  Thank you for your patience.”

More than five travellers caravans and their associated vehicles arrived at the car park on the Tuesday evening.

Immediately after their arrival Mid Devon Leisure issued a statement which read: “Lords Meadow Leisure Centre has been temporarily closed following the arrival of a group of travellers in our car park.

“This measure is precautionary to ensure we can open our facilities safely, with the wellbeing of our staff and customers our priority.   

“Mid Devon Leisure has a zero tolerance approach to the misuse of our sites and facilities, and we will not tolerate any abuse towards our staff from any user.

“We will be monitoring the situation closely and will re-open as soon as possible. Customers affected by the closure can also speak to a member of our leisure team for further advice. 

“Thank you for your patience.”

The travellers were believed to be a different group from the eight caravans which took up residence in “The Rec”, the field adjoining the Leisure Centre from Thursday, July 18 to Saturday, July 20.

It is believed that that group moved too Okehampton.

It is unknown to where the most recent group of travellers has moved.