Another violence charge over Dale Farm

The 26-year-old, who gave no address, is the third person ordered to appear in court following the massive clearance operation which started last Thursday when demonstrators were finally removed from the Essex site.

It came as council officials insisted bailiffs working on the UK’s largest illegal travellers’ site were acting legally.

“Work has progressed safely and professionally over the weekend and I am pleased that a number of static caravans have moved off of the site,” council leader Tony Ball said.

The authority has faced allegations from protesters that bailiffs broke the law by taking down fences and walls before the expiry of 48-hour notices which inform residents how homes will be removed from the site.

Others have accused the council of imposing a “media blackout” by preventing the press from getting into Dale Farm until Monday.

“As I have said all along, the council is clear what we can and cannot do, and I strongly refute any claims that we have breached our court orders,” Mr Ball added.

“There is no basis to these claims, which only serve to cause unnecessary anxiety and stress to those still living on the site and the traveller community as a whole.”

He has denied suggestions that “protected species” were present on site, adding: “All relevant surveys and assessments have been undertaken, and such spurious claims only serve to give the travellers false hope. The site clearance has begun and it will be finished, safely, professionally and lawfully.”

Teams are currently working to clear nine plots which were secured on Friday.

Hardstanding has been removed from four plots and a further eight were due to be secured and fenced today.

The council previously said properties would be removed “with care” and not demolished, before roads were torn up.

But support group Dale Farm Solidarity claimed bailiffs began the process before the 48-hour period was up, claiming one woman was even intimidated out of her home.