At West Country Bailiffs, we regularly handle complex and sensitive cases involving trespasser removal and supervised asset removal, particularly in rural and agricultural settings. Last week, our specialist enforcement team successfully completed a large-scale operation in Manchester, securing vacant possession of a client’s farm following ongoing trespass and unauthorised occupation.
This case demonstrates the importance of experience, sector knowledge, and calm negotiation when dealing with trespassers on rural land, especially where animals, vehicles, and high-value agricultural assets are involved.
Why the Client Contacted West Country Bailiffs
The client initially contacted West Country Bailiffs due to our active membership with the Country Land and Business Association (CLA). As members of the CLA, we regularly support landowners, farmers, and rural businesses with enforcement, trespasser removals, and asset recovery.
Our reputation for handling rural trespass and agricultural enforcement matters gave the client confidence that we understood the unique challenges involved, including livestock welfare, farm access, large machinery, and the need for a practical, proportionate approach. Our proven experience in rural settings was a key factor in the client instructing us to act on their behalf.
Background: Trespass at a Farm in Manchester
Our client, the lawful owner of a farm in Manchester, had been experiencing ongoing issues with a family who were trespassing on the land and occupying a barn and surrounding areas without permission. The occupation originally followed a verbal agreement, which later broke down.
On the advice of the client’s solicitors, a clear legal process was followed. The individuals were served with:
- A Notice to Vacate
- A Torts Notice
- A Final Notice to Remove Goods
Despite these notices being properly drafted and served, a significant quantity of goods, machinery, and animals remained on site.
Further complications arose after an eviction carried out in September, as the individuals continued to trespass repeatedly, returning to the land to tend animals, work on the site, and carry out other activities without consent.
At this point, the client instructed West Country Bailiffs to attend and manage the situation.
Our Instruction: Trespasser Removal, Security, and Supervised Asset Removal
The scale of the assets left behind made this a particularly complex instruction. Items remaining on site included:
- Horses and other livestock
- Dogs
- Large bales of hay
- Five trucks
- A caravan
- A boat
- Agricultural and mechanical equipment
Our role was to provide security, prevent further trespass, supervise the lawful removal of goods under the Torts (Interference with Goods) Act, and ultimately secure vacant possession of the land.
We attended site with experienced enforcement agents, supported by recovery trucks and clearance teams, fully prepared to act should immediate removal be required.
On-Site Attendance and De-Escalation
When we arrived, the trespassers were present on the land. As is often the case in rural trespass situations, emotions were high and tensions quickly escalated during initial discussions.
Thanks to the experience of our enforcement team, particularly in rural and agricultural environments, the situation was de-escalated through calm, professional negotiation. We explained:
- That the individuals had no legal right to remain
- That multiple notices had already been served
- The consequences of continued trespass
- How the removal of goods and animals would be managed lawfully
At a late stage, the trespassers sought to negotiate an agreement regarding the removal of their belongings. Rather than forcing escalation, we worked closely with the client and their solicitors to reach a controlled and lawful agreement.
Staged Removal of Goods and Animals
Given the quantity of assets and the welfare considerations surrounding the animals, an immediate full clearance was not practical. A staged removal plan was agreed, allowing goods and animals to be removed over several days under our supervision.
This ensured:
- Animal welfare was properly managed
- No further damage to the land
- No unauthorised re-entry
- Full compliance with legal obligations
Our office team supported the operation throughout, coordinating logistics and maintaining communication between all parties involved.
Outcome: Vacant Possession Achieved
The operation concluded successfully. All goods and animals were removed, the trespassers vacated the land, and the client regained full vacant possession of their farm.
Crucially, this outcome was achieved peacefully and lawfully, without damage or confrontation, demonstrating the value of instructing experienced enforcement professionals with specific rural expertise.
Trespasser Removal and Asset Recovery for Rural Landowners
If you are a landowner, farmer, or rural business dealing with trespassers, abandoned goods, or unauthorised occupation, West Country Bailiffs can help.
We regularly assist CLA members and rural clients with:
- Trespasser removal from farmland and rural property
- Supervised removal of animals, vehicles, and machinery
- Torts Notices and compliance
- Security and site management
- Lawful recovery of vacant possession
For expert advice on trespasser removal or supervised asset removal, contact West Country Bailiffs today.
