RESIDENTS in a hamlet near Droit-wich are bracing themselves for the possible return of travellers.

At the request of locals in Upton Warren, a special parish council meeting is to be held next week to work out what to do if the gipsies return.

The group, which consists of two brothers and their families, is appealing against an enforcement notice to kick them off green belt land in the area.

They have moved away while the appeal is heard but could be back in a matter of months if the hearing is successful.

"The residents are really worried that the gipsies will come back," said parish councillor Tim Daly.

"They are annoyed at the way they just came in and made a home for themselves on what is traditionally agricultural land.

"It is a very sensitive area at the moment and the meeting next week will help us to determine what should be done."

The family of travellers moved onto the land, off Colley Pit Lane, despite it being Green Belt.

They proceeded to construct driveways, erect a portable toilet and even lay hardcore.

Principal planning officer for Wychavon District Council, Graeme Duerden, said Wychavon District Council was "concerned about all developments in Green Belt."

Resident Diana Rogers, of Cooksey Lodge Farm, which is opposite the land in question, said locals were not prepared to sit around to wait for a decision.

"Rules and regulations are there for everyone to abide by and we are determined these travellers will not get away with breaking them," she said.

"The message must be put across that people cannot go on to land and do what they want.

"I have nothing against them as people. They caused absolutely no trouble when they were here. What I, and everyone else protests, is the way they have handled everything and their cheek at going on to green belt land."

The parish council meeting takes place at 7.15pm next Thursday, July 8.

How the appeal will be heard is due to be decided in the next two weeks.