Two men were arrested after threats to kill were allegedly made against a woman police officer as she confronted a group of travellers.

Inspector Beryl Bacon was talking to the travellers about fly tipping at Hollingbury Park in Ditchling Road, Brighton.

The men have been charged with public order offences.

The travellers left the park on Tuesday and moved briefly to the Asda superstore car park at Hollingbury, Brighton.

Bailiffs served an eviction notice and the 15 travellers, in three caravans, moved on to Newhaven.

Store manager Colin Strong said: "We had to close our toilets after complaints from customers about mess."

James, one of the travellers, said a fourth caravan had been crushed on the orders of police at Hollingbury Park.

He said: "We get hassle everywhere we go. We came into Asda's car park because we had no alternative. We need a permanent site. Give us a council house and we'll move in."

The group comprises several young children.

One woman said: "We asked for water for our babies from the Asda garage but they refused. They shut the toilets and there was nowhere for us and the kids to use.

"We tried to keep the area as clean and tidy as possible."

Thomas, another traveller, said: "I can't read or write. I have two daughters and I want them to have a proper education. I'd take a home anywhere."

Mrs Bacon confirmed one caravan and a car were taken away from Hollingbury Park and crushed.

She said: "Both were derelict and had been abandoned."

Mrs Bacon and a Brighton and Hove City Council spokesman advised people not to give work to door-to-door callers.

Mrs Bacon said: "Rubbish cleared from one house for £20 was later found dumped next to the caravans in Hollingbury Park."