PITREAVIE Athletics Centre is to re-open after a large group of travellers have now moved on.

The Press understands that they arrived on Thursday evening last week with at least eight caravans and trailers seen on-site yesterday (Monday) morning.

Fife Council and Police Scotland have resolved the situation and they have now left the facility, run by Fife Sports and Leisure Trust.

It is now set to re-open later today at 3.30pm (Tuesday).

Paul Short, Fife Council service manager, said: "We work closely with the Gypsy Traveller Community to make sure that their needs are met, while giving consideration to the local community which may be affected by an illegal encampment.

"If a temporary camp is set up on council land we will liaise with the Gypsy Travellers and take any necessary legal action. Where the camp is on non-council land we will still carry out liaison but any enforcement action would be the responsibility of the landowner. "

The centre, off Queensferry Road, was forced to close on Monday temporarily after 'unexpected circumstances'.

The trust apologised for the inconvenience caused.

A spokesperson posted on their website, stating: "Due to unexpected circumstances outwith our own control, the venue will be closed on a temporary basis. FSLT is working closely with Fife Council partners to resolve matters and to hope to seek an early return to business as usual.

"We will provide further updates, as and when they become available and regret any inconvenience that this may cause to our valued coaches, athletes and clubs."