Protesters refuse to take town camp

Protester refuse to leave their camp Credit: ITV Central

Villagers protesting against an illegal gypsy site near Solihull say they won't take their protest camp down - even though it breaches planning regulations.

Residents in Meriden were ordered by Solihull Borough Council to move their temporary shelter by today. But villagers say nothing will come down until they have finished discussions with the council.

The gypsies moved on to greenbelt land two years ago and set up a camp without planning permission. Since then residents have kept a 24 hour vigil as part of their protest.

The gypsies have agreed with the council to leave by 31 March 2013 after a High Court Judge rejected their appeal to stay. But villagers say they will not leave unto the gypsies do.