LOCALS have been left fuming after a fleet of caravan nomads forced the closure of a sports centre used by a top cricket club.
The large group of travellers have pitched up at Taunton Vale Sports Group, a training facility for County Club.
It has announced it will be closed for the foreseeable future after the unwelcome arrival overnight on Sunday.
The venue is where County Cricket Club’s Second XI and County Age Group teams play.
It is also the official outground for Somerset County Cricket Club.
Taunton Vale Sports Group said all cricket related activities have been cancelled “until further notice”; with all fixtures needing to be either re-arranged or a new venue found.
Images also show vehicles have driven over the wicket itself – causing damaging tyre marks to the crease.
The sports club also provides a 3G pitch, , and a sports hall.
A spokesperson for Taunton Vale Sports Group said: “Overnight we have had a large group of set up base at the Sports Club.
“All cricket related activities have been cancelled until further notice. The clubhouse will also remain closed.”;
TVSC General Manager, Steve Archer revealed that all facilities will be closed, with the earliest reopening date expected to be Thursday, July 10.
Steve said: “The whole site will remain closed due to the Group of Travellers that are pitched up on our main cricket ground.
“This now includes our 3G Football Pitch, Tennis Courts and Sports Hall.
“We are in the process of gaining a court order to serve an eviction notice to the group.
“The earliest we look to have our facilities back operational will be on Thursday, 10th July 2025 if the eviction process runs smoothly.
“We will keep all of our members and venue hirers up to date.”;
The centre closure is only only a few days after travellers had pitched up at Leslie Avenue and Greenway in Taunton – but this group has since moved on.
Local sports teams also use the 3G football pitch with an official Soccer Sixes hosting teams at the site every Sunday and Tuesday.
Somerset County Cricket Club and Taunton Town Council have been approached for comment.
