Protesters have begun dismantling the camp they set up outside Exeter Cathedral after being threatened with legal action.

Occupy Exeter, part of the movement opposed to what supporters see as inequality and corporate greed, have been camping on Cathedral Green since November.

They had about 30 tents on the site and had rejected previous requests by the diocese to leave the area.

However, they have now begun to clear the site after Church authorities served them with papers. The group was given until this morning to leave or face court action.

Protesters began leaving their tents and belongings the site on Saturday evening.

However, many of the group have moved to a derelict building near the green. And a posting on the group’s Facebook page said it would be setting up a new camp this weekend north of Exeter.

It added: “While the physical camp is relocating and progressing, the movement

remains very strong with a large group of dedicated activists and a thriving online community.”

The cathedral said it regretted having to take action to remove the camp, but claimed it had become the focus for anti-social behaviour.