A SCHOOL was forced to close today after travellers set up camp nearby.

Park Lane Infant School in Tilehurst was forced to close after caravans and trucks arrived on the school grounds.

One resident who asked not to be named said: "I saw them arrive last night, it must have been about 9.30pm.

"I thought there were three caravans but there were only two when I left the house.

"There was a fair on the school grounds over the weekend so that may be how they got in."

Reading Borough Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour team are working with the school and police to tackle the illegal encampment.

Two council officers visited the site yesterday to inform the encampment they are trespassing and must vacate.

The police have said they will be using their powers to remove the group and try and allow the school to reopen today.

Councillor Liz Terry, lead member for neighbourhoods, said: “I am pleased that our working partnership with the Police means that the illegal encampment will be moved on.

"Whilst travellers need places to stop over it is unacceptable that they should disrupt the lives of the children at the school and their parents."

Police are currently on site removing the travellers.