The travellers moved onto the greenbelt land two years ago

On Monday the group dug trenches, formed a human shield and set fire to caravans to prevent bailiffs from evicting them.

The 21 families moved onto the land at Wolvey Road in Bulkington after buying it two-and-a-half years ago.

They did not apply for planning permission to erect buildings, fences and roads on the greenbelt land and have been told that makes the site illegal.

Nuneaton and Bedworth District Council has fought an ongoing legal battle to remove them culminating in Monday's standoff.

I would state on behalf of the authorities that they have an obligation to look at an alternative site. Environmental Services Director Alan Franks

On Tuesday Environmental Services Director at the council, Alan Franks, said the travellers had to find somewhere else to go.

"They have known about the potential date for eviction for several months now," he said.

"As far as we know they have not looked at neighbouring local authorities to see where they can be accommodated.

"I would state on behalf of the authorities that they have an obligation to look at an alternative site."

A spokesman for the families said they plan to attempt to prevent the eviction as they have nowhere else to go.

The travellers have asked to be allowed to buy some other land they can develop.

It is not expected that any further attempt will be made to try to evict the families on Tuesday.