They took over open space off Stirling Road in Camelon last week and set up home. Around eight families are thought to be involved.

To get their caravans, towed by cars and vans in, a barrier which restricts the height of any vehicle passing through the entrance to the picnicking area at the Dorrator Bridge, was taken down.

Falkirk Council, who own the land, is taking legal action to have them removed.

A council spokeswoman confirmed: "They have no right to be there. Officers from our community service department have visited the site and explained the situation."

The council runs an official Travelling Persons site on Redding Industrial Estate which provides pitches for up to 30 caravans, a chalet with toilet and washing facilities and electricity. Although it is currently full with a waiting list, the council admits not every family wants to take advantage of it and prefer to 'park up' in what they consider the traditional way.

A 35-YEAR-OLD woman was injured after being struck by a white transit van on Stirling Road between Camelon and Larbert on Sunday night. Police are anxious to speak to witnesses. The incident occurred at around 9 p.m. Anyone with information should call (01786) 456000.