WHEN James Davies was given the tenancy of a bungalow at Castle Park, Kilpeck, he took his 'family' to live with him.

They included ducks, rabbits, chickens, ferrets and geese and were given free run of the bungalow home.

It was only when complaints poured in from neighbours that the landlords, Herefordshire Housing, became aware of their tenant's unusual menagerie.

And their investigations led them to find more than they bargained for.

The animals were found to be fed freely and messed at will, no parts of the floor free from their indiscretions.

Window sills had been used as perching places with obvious results.

"We have not had a case as bad as this for a long time," said Herefordshire Housing spokesman Martin Smith.

Towards the end of last year the company started legal proceedings to recover the bungalow because of complaints - including about the excessive number of animals - from neighbours.

In a statement, Herefordshire Housing said Mr Davies gave notice that he was leaving Castle Park by December 15, but then stayed on at the property.

"The company nevertheless felt it had a duty to the other tenants in the area to follow through on the eviction in order to improve the quality of their environment," it said.

Worcester County Court granted an eviction order on December 18 and Mr Davies, who moved in to Castle Park last June, was evicted last week.

Herefordshire Housing said the condition of the property was now of major concern and would require significant money to be spent to make it fit for habitation and no longer an eyesore to local residents.

The company, a not-for-profit organisation, said it was the largest social housing provider in Herefordshire.

As a responsible landlord it took very seriously its responsibility to provide a safe and pleasant environment for all tenants.

"We will take steps to ensure that anti-social behaviour by any individual is dealt with in an appropriate manner,'' it pledged.

Four maintenance staff are now working at Castle Park cleaning up the mess and replacing fittings before it can be re-let.

After Mr Davies left the premises he was offered bed and breakfast accommodation but is said to have declined the offer.