LITTER bugs and squatters are making life hell for people in the Butts Bridge area of Leigh.

Empty homes in Warrington Road have been targeted by dumpers and drop-outs bringing misery to West Avenue residents whose homes back onto the abandoned terrace.

And in spite of clean-ups by Wigan Council's environmental health sector the problem continues.

The houses are privately owned and locals fear health and fire hazards because of their run-down condition.

One West Avenue resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said:"It's just an eyesore. The area is strewn with broken glass and we've had fires.

"The fences have been ripped down and people are using the houses as a dumping ground. Squatters move in at night and one of the chimney stacks is falling down.

"It isn't the Council's fault, they have cleaned-up several times. But we're sick of it and fear for the safety of children who play in the area.

"Soil, old doors, rubble and bags of rubbish have been tipped there and are attracting rats."

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