Caravans on Cannon Hill Common have now been removed, police say.

At least three caravans are believed to have parked at about 11pm on June 12.

Many took to Twitter and Facebook to express support and opposition to the encampment.

One Facebook commenter said: "Walked my two dogs over Cannon Hill today - human waste and toilet paper in the ditch behind their caravans - an absolutely disgusting way to live. The smell in this heat is vile."

Another said: "I don't know what the law is in this situation, but if it's a small group and they are not doing any harm, why can't they stay on the common?"

Some were annoyed that council measures have done little  to block access to the area: 

Councillors and residents have been calling on the council for years to do more to secure the site.

It has been alleged that travellers moved some of the smaller logs before driving onto the Common last week.

Police say they are monitoring the area.