Following intervention from Richmond Council bailiffs yesterday (Tuesday, 22 July), travellers who illegally set up camp on Ham Common earlier this year have now left.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Richmond Council said: "We are aware that an unauthorised encampment has been set up at Ham Common. Unauthorised encampments breach our Public Space Protection Orders which prohibit unauthorised access to our open spaces.

"Welfare checks will be carried out this morning, and we have started the legal process to ensure the group moves on as soon as possible."

The council added: "Our Parks Patrol Contractor has confirmed the unauthorised encampment at Ham Common has now vacated the site. Our Parks Cleansing team attended this morning to carry out a clean-up, ensuring that any litter was removed."