Securicor may be at the forefront of worldwide business security - but it couldn't stop travellers getting on to one of its depots and parking their caravans.

No amount of hi-tech wizardry could, it seems, prevent the collection of vehicles parking at the premises of the security firm's premises in Transport Way, Cowley, Oxford.

So far all attempts to oust the unwanted guests have failed.

The company website reads: "Securicor Security is at the forefront of the provision of high quality security services in 35 countries worldwide. Securicor's maxim for all its international business is 'global expertise, local understanding'." The company has more than 60 years' experience of providing on-site security - tailoring its service to a company's needs.

But all these skills have so far proved unequal to dealing with the travellers.

The firm could not say when the travellers had arrived at Securicor's door, nor is it known when they would be gone.

A spokesman for Securicor said: "We can confirm that two caravans have been parked in the car park of Securicor's Cowley branch.

"The car park, which has direct access from the road, is outside the secure perimeter of the branch and is used only by staff to park their own cars."

The spokesman added: "As such, the security and operations of the branch have not been affected.

"However Securicor has, through the proper legal channels, applied to the County Court for an eviction order. This has been granted and will be enforced by the Sheriff's office."

Story date: Friday 16 April

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.