04.07.2012 0

Provence & Côte d'Azur: More unwelcome travellers set up camp on the Côte d'Azur

Gypsies cause havoc in La Roquette

Yet another town has been hit by a wave of travellers seeking refuge on the Côte d'Azur. This time, around 100 caravans and mobile homes have burst in on the small community of La Roquette, throwing the town's summer plans and festivals into chaos as they reportedly vow to say for another two weeks.

The Vie et Lumiere gypsies have taken over a field in the town of La Roquette sur Siagne which is ususally used for outdoor summertime events. Copyright: Vito Lentini

On Sunday 1st July, hundreds of Evangelist gypsy travellers from the Vie et Lumiere (Life and Life) missionary group broke into a protected meadow, knocking down a wall and surging out onto the pasture.

Sparks flew and police were forced to step in when the travellers went out in search for an electricity connection and butted heads with nearby La Roquette residents.

The Christian travellers are reportedly refusing to bow to pressure from the council and community, but have promised to leave the field on 22nd July. It's believed the La Roquette municipality and residents have lodged legal complaints.

"From next Monday, riding stables and children's activities were supposed to be installed on the site," a legal spokesperson for the town told local media, "We have got to get them out."

Elsa Carpenter

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