SWIFT action is needed to prevent a popular park in Newport being turned into a "scrap yard", concerned residents have said.

Travellers set up an illegal encampment in Black Ash Park, in Lliswerry, back in September. And almost a month later, more than 12 caravans are still there.

Residents are demanding for the travellers to be moved, after claiming that they are dumping waste on the site.

Lliswerry resident Kevin Murray said: "There is a disgusting pile of rubbish behind the caravans.

"I live near the park and I have seen the travellers dump their rubbish on the pile.

"It is a beautiful park and I am worried it will be ruined.

"I want them moved on. No one should be allowed to sleep in the park."

Another resident Leo Daniels, who is a former bus driver, said: "The park is getting turned into a scrap yard.

"There is all kinds of rubbish near the caravans.

"I'm guessing we need more security to stop cars getting onto the park. It is upsetting."

A resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "I am worried about what the park will be like at the end.

"We have seen travellers going to the toilet in the park, as well as dump their rubbish.

"The other thing I'm annoyed about is that no one knows what is happening. I have not heard anything from the council - I don't even know when the travellers will be moved."

Cllr Allan Morris, who is the independent councillor for Lliswerry, claimed he too was "unaware" of what would happen next.

He said: "People are quite rightly expressing their concern.

"There is a a lot of rubbish being dumped. They are concerned it will still be there when the travellers leave.

"I have been contacting the council and I have had no response. I have tried several occasions."

"I am concerned because there is blatant dumping of rubbish on our park."

A spokesperson for Newport City Council said: "Newport City Council shares the frustration of residents over the illegal encampment on Black Ash Park.

"However, it has to follow the proper legal processes and going through the courts can take time.

"A court order was issued, however the Travellers did not leave site by the deadline imposed. It has therefore been necessary to seek enforcement through a High Court writ and have passed the papers to High Court Enforcement Officers to carry out this process.

"Security measures were in place to try to prevent illegal access to the park and these are being reviewed.

"Newport City Council is working with other local authorities to explore options for a regional transit site for Gypsies and Travellers who are on route to other destinations."