Measures to enhance security have been implemented at a park in Abingdon after a group of Travellers departed following an incident at the venue.

The group arrived at Albert Park in Abingdon during the evening of Saturday, August 15, bringing caravans, vehicles, livestock such as horses, geese and dogs, as well as work equipment.

The Travellers departed the site approximately five days after their arrival.

Following their departure, substantial concrete barriers have been positioned at the park’s entry points, effectively preventing vehicles from gaining access unless authorised to do so.

The historic charitable organisation Christ’s Hospital Abingdon, which owns the private park, has reportedly faced considerable expenses as a result of the unauthorised occupation.

The institution has maintained the park as a public recreational space since 1553, while also providing educational services, almshouses, and historical preservation for the town.

In a communication issued on Tuesday, August 18, the charity acknowledged that a group of Travellers had forced entry and occupied the park over the preceding days.

The statement indicated that Christ’s Hospital had been coordinating with relevant authorities, including Thames Valley Police, to evaluate the situation and establish appropriate procedures.

The organisation emphasised that the wellbeing of regular park visitors, nearby residents, and its own beneficiaries remained the primary concern.

The charity acknowledged that the incident had generated worry and disruption for individuals who frequently use the park.

A commitment was made to return the facility to normal public use as quickly as possible, with specialist contractors to be engaged to carry out necessary work.

The public was asked to allow these professionals to complete their tasks unimpeded.

The charity explained that such occurrences carry substantial financial consequences for a charitable organisation.

Expenditure on legal counsel, specialist enforcement assistance, security arrangements, cleaning operations, and any required restoration work would be drawn from charitable funds.

These resources would ordinarily support the maintenance of community facilities, assistance for beneficiaries, and the advancement of Christ’s Hospital’s charitable mission.

County councillor Tom Greenaway reported that during conversations with local residents, several council members were subjected to verbal abuse by a driver operating a vehicle across the park grounds.

Residents were advised to exercise caution regarding vehicles and animals in areas where they might not typically be anticipated.

Damage was observed to a Victorian-era gate situated at the park’s entrance off Park Road, with a metal bar appearing to have been forced out of its proper position.

Thames Valley Police officers attended the location to communicate with the group and investigate reports of criminal activity.

A force representative confirmed that officers were aware of the unauthorised encampment and would maintain close observation of developments while remaining in contact with the landowner.

The police indicated that collaborative work with partner agencies would continue to assess any effects on the local community.

Following their departure from Albert Park, some members of the Traveller group relocated to an area of land in Drayton, which lies in the vicinity of Abingdon.