A MEETING is to be held after more than 120 travellers and their caravans invaded Whitby causing damage and leaving extensive rubbish in a field on the outskirts of the resort.

Residents and leaders of businesses on the Whitby industrial estate next to the field used by the travellers, have protested that something must be done to prevent what has become an annual invasion.

Police, officials of Scarborough Council and councillors are holding a meeting at Whitby Pavilion to discuss the problem.

Councillor Dorothy Clegg, one of the leading campaigners for action, said: "We really must explore alternative suggestions to deal with the problem next year.

"Many people's lives have been made a misery during this year's camp.

"I want to see the campsite moved away from houses and businesses."

Police have received a catalogue of complaints of theft, damage, burglaries and other crime.

Scarborough Council's scrutiny committee is expected to investigate the issue of the traveller invasion and possible solutions, on September 10.