Ashville College in Harrogate said today police were conducting regular patrols after travellers set up camp on the sports field.
An encampment arrived at the independent school on Friday night.
In an update today, a spokesman for the college said it had been working with North Yorkshire Police “and other authorities to expedite the removal of the travellers from our sports field”.
He added:
“As a precautionary measure, there is a fence running the width of the site to separate the school from the travellers.
“They have been instructed by the police, who are carrying out regular patrols, not to go near school buildings or any pupils.”
Home sports fixtures were postponed following the weekend arrival of travellers.
The spokesman said:
“Thanks to the hard work and vigilance of all our teaching and support staff, the school is fully operational today, although there have been some minor adjustments for our youngest pupils in Acorns pre-prep and reception.
“GCSE and A-level examinations are running as usual in the sports centre. Sports lessons, and after-school clubs and activities, are also uninterrupted.
“We are providing regular updates to families until the situation is resolved, and thank them for their continued support and understanding.”
Travellers previously pitched up on Ashville’s sports fields off Yew Tree Lane in August 2021 and demanded money to leave.
The Stray Ferret asked North Yorkshire Police what action it had taken but has not received a response.
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- Police alerted after travellers set up camp at Ashville College
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Police to challenge rule breakers on Harrogate district roads and beauty spots
North Yorkshire Police has said it will challenge lockdown rule breakers on the Harrogate district’s roads and beauty spots.
Superintendent Mike Walker, the force’s lead for coronavirus, today set out the countywide policing strategy for the third national lockdown.
He said police presence and visibility would increase to “reassure” people, and anyone caught breaking the rules would be challenged and possibly fined up to £200.
Read more:
Supt Walker said:
“Under these new regulations, if you are outside of your home without a reasonable excuse, or gathering indoors or outdoors with others, the police can take enforcement action against you and you can be fined up to £200.
“I would also stress that it is important to stay as close to home as possible. While exercise is permitted, this should be done in your local area, preferably from your doorstep.
“The new restrictions have been put in place to limit people’s movements in order to suppress the spread of a deadly virus. If you travel further than is essential, you are putting yourself and those communities you visit at risk of contracting this virus.
“Our health service is at a crucial point and as a nation we face a very serious situation, so it’s vital that we stick to the rules and stop the spread of the virus.”