LEGAL proceedings are under way to evict a group of travellers who arrived on playing fields behind Verdin Exchange last Tuesday.

There have been several complaints from residents about their behaviour and one resident on Hawkshead Way, who did not wish to be named, said: "They have been a nuisance since they arrived here last week - mainly with the noise from motorbikes being ridden up and down the street.

"One man has also been pestering us to buy our dogs, which we've since had to keep on leads."

Another resident who lives on the same street, added: "I haven't allowed my daughter to walk across the field this week.

"She said she wasn't happy and didn't feel safe going to school on her own so I have been with her each day."

Insp Brian Roberts, from Winsford Police, said: "A number of issues have been reported which we are now investigating."

A Cheshire County Council spokesman said: "We sent a letter asking them to leave by a noon deadline on Monday, which has been ignored. Therefore we are beginning legal proceedings."

Meanwhile Winsford Town Mayor Clr Tony Hooton said he would be visiting the site with representatives from Verdin Exchange and the county council to see how best to keep travellers out.

He said: "This is the third or fourth time they have got in. The ditch which kept them out before has now filled up."