Councillor provides update on traveller camp in Cowdenbeath

As reported last week, Crossgates Primrose 2006 team was left unable to play their last two games of the season at their usual Golf Course Park home because of the unauthorised encampment.

Providing an update on his Facebook page, Cowdenbeath councillor Darren Watt said he was aware of the ongoing situation.

"I am being kept up to date by Police Scotland and Fife Council, and have been assured by both authorities there are no overall concerns and the area is being kept tidy," he said.

"Initial conversations suggested they would move on at the weekend, however, this didn't happen and this weekend coming is more likely.

READ MORE: Travellers' camp sees Crossgates football team turfed out

"I appreciate this has caused some disruption, particularly to the football club who use the pitch and facilities. I am working alongside fellow local councillors and council officers to address and prevent future occurrences."

Last week, Crossgates Primrose's club secretary Alex Rutherford expressed his frustration that the same thing had happened last year and, despite promises, no action had been carried out to prevent a repeat.

Mr Rutherford said they remain in contact with the local authority over the issue.

"I have been in contact with a few of the councillors and Fife Council with regards this matter over the past week," he said.

"Due to the location of the sited vans, it was impossible to play the last two matches and we managed to hire Beath High Astro at the club's expense.

"Looking forward the 2006 team who play there just now will move up to the under-20's development league and will play their matches at another ground, however, with the money we spent on upgrading the changing rooms, we would like to hold onto this pitch for our younger year groups.

"Myself and the council are now looking at how best to secure the pitch area to ensure that travellers do not unlawfully pitch up site here in the future."