IT’S coming into summer time and, as sure as the sun will rise and the rain will fall when you don’t want it to, unauthorised traveller encampments will spring up across north Essex.

It happens every year.

Travellers arrive, possibly to enjoy their summer in scenic surroundings or enjoy a seaside break.

And as, Mr Kissane says in today’s story, not all travellers - indeed very few - are out to wrong anyone.

But their presence leaves many residents uneasy because some travelelrs leave heaps of rubbish in parks or on the side of roads which cost thousands of pounds to clean up.

There is a fear of crime which exists too.

So what is the answer?

Some years ago, the Severalls traveller site was established, and not without objections.

But it is fair to say the project has been a success, however.

Not all elements of the traveller communitywant to settle permanently though.

As Mr Kissane says, travelling is their lifestyle.

Last year, there were suggestions made about creating “stay and pay” spots for travellers.

But, as we understand it, there are no firm plans in place for any action in that regard.

But someone, somewhere has to take action.

At the moment the strategy seems to be akin to pushing peas around a plate.

The travellers set up camp and are moved on and so set up a camp elsewhere. And so on.

It is time for everyone to come up with a plan to suit all parties.