TRAVELLERS have been asked to leave River Park amid reports their children have verbally abused sports players.

One resident, who has asked not to be named, said he saw three large caravans pitch up at around 4pm yesterday, and witnessed children washing their clothes in the river.

Osman tennis players were subjected to a barrage of abuse, claimed the resident.

A spokesman for Winchester City Council said: “The City Council is aware and dealing with the situation.

“Officers were due formally to ask the travellers to leave the site at around 9.30am this morning due to the amount of rubbish already on site.

Hampshire County Council has been asked to carry out a welfare check and that is due this afternoon.

“CCTV will keep an eye on things throughout the day and night until the issue is resolved.”