A COUNCIL was due to apply to the courts today for a removal order against 50 travellers encamped in Barrow, near Clitheroe.

Ribble Valley Council served notice on the travellers yesterday, but they have so far refused to leave.

Council leader Chris Holtom, said the council's legal officers would be applying for the removal order from magistrates in Blackburn and, if necessary, the travellers would be forcibly evicted.

The travellers have illegally camped on an economic development park at the site of the former Barrow Printworks, off the A59.