A PARK run was forced to cancel for fears of “safety” after a convoy of travellers set up shop in a field.
Organisers of the Walthamstow Parkrun said it was “with deep regret” that the weekly run on the fields by Peter May Sport Centre had to be called off.
About 20 caravans and motorhomes were camped up around the perimeter of the Highams Park field, next to the council’s sports centre.
While reports from neighbours suggest the travellers have moved on today, the large camp prevented Saturday’s run from going ahead.
In a Facebook post, the run’s organiser said: “It is with deep regret that we have to cancel our run tomorrow.
“The travellers are still occupying the back pitches so we our unable to execute out event.
“Your safety is very important to us. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. It was a very difficult decision to make.
“We do not like cancelling events. We hope to be back up running next week.”
The safety concerns came after a large convoy of travellers made a “violent” break-in at a field in Sewardstone Road, Chingford, a week before.
Waltham Forest Council confirmed the land the travellers were occupying is owned by the London Playing Fields Association.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel