Travellers took over an abandoned factory site and threatened to kill people living nearby.

Police were called when a large group of traveller vans arrived in Sydney Road, Watford, on Friday at 7.18pm.

Several concerned neighbours have suggested that around eight caravans of travellers attempted to enter an abandoned factory site, which is soon due to be redeveloped into a series of flats.

The travellers were seen using rope to drag and move a large concrete bollard which blocked access to the site so they could get in.

One person, who asked not to be named, says the bollard has now been left in the road and has not been moved.

Watford Observer:

Police were called to a travellers sighting last Friday photo: UGC.

Another claimed that some of the travellers worked together to lift and move a car parked outside the site so their vans could get in.

Several claimed that travellers verbally abused neighbours ­— including threats to kill ­— while police were present.

One neighbour claimed they saw the group leaving at 3am on Saturday.

Watford Observer:

Travellers van in Sydney Road photo: UGC.

Hertfordshire Constabulary said: "Police were called at 7.18pm on Friday (27 September) to reports of a traveller encampment in Sydney Road, Watford.

"Officers attended the scene and liaised with the travellers and the landowner. The landowner is organising for the encampment to be removed.

"Patrols are being increased in the area."

Watford Observer:

The bollard that is currently blocking the road photo: UGC.