Gipsies gather to take part in Christian camp

Hundreds of Romany gipsies were today gathered near Oswestry as they prepared for a Christian camp.

About 50 caravans parked up yesterday for the event being held on land near Maesbrook, Oswestry.

Many caravans were arriving today, with some struggling to find the site, tucked away down a rural lane.

The event has been organised by Pastor Sam Evans, who lives near Chirk, and yesterday saw about 50 caravans on the large field, which has been rented from the owner.

Today, the born-again Romanies reassured residents they would leave the site as clean as when they arrived and said everyone was welcome to go along and join in the services.

The caravans are due to leave on Sunday.

However, one resident, who did not want to be named, said: "People living round here knew nothing about what was happening. It is very worrying. We don't know why they are here and how long they are here for."

Families have travelled from across the UK to the five-day event.

A big top-style marquee has been erected at the centre of the camp to allow services to take place under cover.

Mary Ann Holden, who is at the event with her family, said: "We are here to praise Jesus and anyone who wants to join us will be made very welcome. We have services at 9am and 7pm and will also be holding events for the young people."

Organisers have hired portable toilets and a huge skip for the cleaning up process at the site.