FIFTEEN families have set-up camp illegally on a piece of land just off the A12 at Copdock.The travellers cut down an electric fence to gain access to the field last week, forcing two Shetland ponies that normally graze on the land to be moved.

FIFTEEN families have set-up camp illegally on a piece of land just off the A12 at Copdock.

The travellers cut down an electric fence to gain access to the field last week, forcing two Shetland ponies that normally graze on the land to be moved.

The group of Irish travellers have said they will be leaving the site in a couple of days and pledged to clear the site of the rubbish, which littered the field.

Frank, one of the dozens of travellers on the site, said: "We are all moving on in a couple of days as we have a big wedding to go to in Milton Keynes.

"The site is a bit untidy at the moment but we intend to clear the rubbish before we leave."

Two Shetland ponies, who normally graze on the land, opposite Woodside Catery just off the old A12, had to be moved from the field as it is was no longer safe for them to remain.

A friend of the owner of the two ponies, said: "The owner is away on holiday but is aware of the situation.

"The ponies, Polly and Blackie, are now staying in a nearby stable until the situation is resolved."

The two Shetlands are now having to be taken out for an hour's walk each day in order they get enough exercise.

People living near to the site said they haven't had any trouble with their new neighbours but admitted the rubbish littering the field was an eyesore.

About 30 vehicles, caravans, trucks and cars are parked on the site. The first four caravans arrived last Tuesday, but each day the numbers steadily grew. The travellers are understood to be carrying out labouring work in the area.

One resident living nearby, who did not wish to be named, said that the fire service were called on one occasion because a bonfire got out of control and started spreading across the field.