Travellers who set up an illegal roadside camp in Bobbing have departed.

The group was due to appear in court yesterday but left voluntarily on Sunday.

Their presence caused tensions with nearby homeowners who accused them of defecating in the street and allowing their dogs to run wild.

Prior to leaving, there had been at least nine caravans and vehicles parked along Bobbing Hill, just off the Key Street roundabout near Pigeon Farm, since December 10.

They ignored a ‘24 hours to leave’ notice which they were served after being visited by police and council officials on December 16.

A substantial amount of refuse and waste has been left at the site following their departure.

A resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “It’s not a pretty sight. I hope Swale council will be sending a clean-up team but I expect not until after Christmas.

“We are looking to Highways and the council to support the residents here in making permanent arrangements to deter further encampments.”

There are plans for a gypsy site to be expanded just two miles from Pigeon Farm.

The owner of the site, opposite the Garden of England Crematorium on Sheppey Way, is seeking permission to build static and mobile homes.

Swale council will consider the application in the new year.