Gypsies blamed for vandalism and causing a nuisance in Dales village

Dozens of caravans and vehicles began arriving in Bainbridge, near Hawes, last Thursday.

Villagers had expected the arrival and had cordoned off the main green to stop the gypsies from stopping in this area, but had left the bottom green so they could pitch their caravans there.

However, they ignored the cordon and parked on both greens.

Yvonne Peacock, Bainbridge resident and a Richmondshire district councillor, said that since the arrival of the gypsies, the public toilets had been vandalised and were now temporarily closed.

She added that horses and traps had been ridden the wrong way up the one-way system, while litter, as well as dog and horse excrement, had been left on the green.

She said local children and pensioners had felt intimated. There had also been reports of children from the caravans throwing stones at sheep in a field near the village green, she said.

“We sectioned off the main green but we left the bottom green so a few could camp there – this was a big mistake.

“We’ve had travellers and gypsies before but never this many. It’s been an extremely unpleasant experience for the residents of Bainbridge.”

Colin Dales, corporate director for operational services at Richmondshire District Council, confirmed the toilets had been vandalised but said he could comment on who caused the damage.

“The damage is quite significant. We’re currently commencing repairs with a view to the toilets being reopened on Friday.

“We have reported the damage to the police.”

Mr Dales said district council staff would remove any litter and rubbish once the travellers had gone.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said: "Officers attended Bainbridge on Sunday, June 2, 2013, following reports that a number of caravans had parked in the village.

“As no offences had been committed, a low key approach was taken to monitor the situation and extra reassurance patrols undertaken in the village.”