Travellers have moved into the car park at Maidstone Leisure Centre.

Five caravans, one camper van and two panel vans arrived on Sunday night on the site off Mote Avenue.

This morning they have hooked up to gas canisters, with their children playing outside.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "We were called at 9pm on Sunday to reports of a traveller incursion next to Maidstone Leisure Centre.

"The matter is being dealt with by the landowner, as is the normal process for these matters. "If necessary any eviction process will be assisted by police."

It is the second time within two months that travellers have descended on Mote Park. More than 20 caravans pitched up near the leisure centre in September, but in that case most stayed only one day. A few left after two days.