ESSEX Police and Crime Commissioner Nick Alston has called on the police to investigate claims of criminal offences and damaged being committed by travellers who moved into Thurrock on Friday.

Up to 100 vehicles moved into Belhus Park in Aveley after being removed from Lakeside Sports Ground by police on Friday after coming from east London.

Thurrock Council have today already spoken out against the police and their lack of action over the Aveley move.

Mr Alston said: “I expect Essex Police to enforce the law consistently, without fear or favour. If there is evidence that criminal offences, such as criminal damage, were committed when travellers moved onto the land at Lakeside and Belhus Park then that evidence must be gathered by police and the incidents should be investigated.

“I will be asking Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh for a briefing on these events, including any communication between the Metropolitan Police Service and Essex Police prior to the arrival of the travellers in Thurrock.

“I support the comments of local councillors that there should be strong partnership working between the police and councils around these matters.”