Eco-warriors have claimed victory after charges against them were dropped - but say they are disappointed not to have had their day in court.

The six men and one woman were accused of criminal damage and burgling two houses in Rettendon.

The two properties were bought by Essex County Council, as they were on the route of the road and were demolished within days of the arrests.

One of the accused, Sean O'Reilly, 46, said: "I'm really very disappointed. I would have liked my day in court.

"The Crown Prosecution Service is taking our voice away . It has scored a minor victory.

"We were accused of damaging a building that it demolished immediately after we left it.

"It would have looked ridiculous in court and I do feel vindicated. It is good news for the camp that most of us will be back. What this will do is make us a little bit more determined."

Chelmsford magistrates were told prosecution lawyers would not be continuing the case against the seven, aged between 19-46.

Before the case, they had been instructed to leave the area under the terms of their bail conditions. They are now free to rejoin other protesters camped at Gorse Wood, Rettendon, who have opposed the proposed A130 bypass since the spring.

Jules, another eco-warrior, said: "I'm not surprised in the least. I think it was inevitable that it was going to be dropped.

"We managed without them, but it's good to have them back. It is a boost.

"We are all very close and we missed them more on a personal basis than anything else.

"Things are coming along nicely at the camp. We are always ready, but there's always room for improvement."

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