Chaos Ensues as Campers Illegally Enter Cricket Ground, Pitch Occupation, and Allegedly Pelting Strangers with Stones
Unauthorized Encampment Disrupts Plymstock Cricket Club
A group of travellers have set up an unauthorized encampment on the pitch of Plymstock Cricket Club in Plymouth, causing significant disruption to the community. The encampment, which was reportedly established on July 28, has led to the cancellation of all fixtures for the foreseeable future, affecting not only the cricket team but also the tennis and football teams.
According to reports, members of the group have been throwing rocks at passers-by, causing concern and discomfort in the local community. Lee Garlick, a local resident, took photographs of the van dwellers on the cricket pitch and was approached by children asking about his drone, claiming it was against the law. However, Mr. Garlick explained and informed them of the law and his entitlement to fly the drone.
Aerial drone footage shows approximately 20 caravans parked on the cricket pitch, causing extensive damage to the green. The club stated that the recent development is "absolutely heart-breaking" as they had recently put a lot of effort into improving their pitch and facilities.
Devon and Cornwall Police have attended the site and engaged with the group, and are currently liaising with Plymouth City Council about the unauthorized encampment. As of the time of this article, no comment has been received from the council or the relevant authorities.
The club has been in touch with their local MP, hoping for a quick resolution to the situation. The club's statement emphasises the importance of the facility to the community, and the impact that the encampment is having on the local sports teams and their fixtures. Some vehicles leaving the encampment were reported to have told Mr. Garlick to "f*** off" and to "go play with [his] toy somewhere else".
For more information about the unauthorized encampment on Plymstock Cricket Club's pitch, you can refer to recent news reports such as the article published on July 31, 2025, by The Telegraph. You can also look for updates from local Plymouth newspapers, the official Plymstock Cricket Club website or social media, and statements from Plymouth city council regarding the incident.
- The unrest at Plymstock Cricket Club, a general-news topic, has escalated beyond cricket, as the encampment has also disrupted the tennis and football teams' schedules, affecting sports in the community.
- In addition to the disruptive behavior reported by locals, crime-and-justice concerns have been raised as some members of the encampment are said to have threatened a resident with foul language when questioned about their presence.
- As the encampment has been causing significant damage to the cricket pitch, travel and tourism may be impacted long-term if maintenance and repairs are delayed, potentially hindering the overall experience for visitors looking to explore the region's sports and recreational facilities.
