"Fly-tippers adding to rat problem"

Kris and Katrina Cichocka, of Cedar Avenue, Mexborough, have called for Doncaster Council to help them tackle the problem.

The couple, who have lived at their property for six years, have video footage of vermin in their garden.

But Doncaster Council said it had not found any evidence of rats at the home.

Mrs Cichocka said: “We have been fighting for two years and nothing has been done. The rats are just running outside, walking in my garden. It’s absolutely ridiculous.”

Mrs Cichocka said that a neighbour had also seen rats in his garden.

She said: “Nobody seems to want to be responsible.”

“The last time I rung the council they said I would have to pay £200 for pest control to come round. 

“But we pay council tax so somebody should be responsible for what happens.

“When I walk outside my house to let the dog out I am always scared in case I might see a rat.”

The couple have three children - Klaudia (17), Gabriella aged seven and three-year-old Kayla.

Mrs Cichocka said she was worried for their safety either from rats directly or because of disease or being exposed to poisons put down to kill the vermin.

They have bought a trap to try and catch rats, as well as a special spray containing fox urine which is meant to scare rats away.

Mr Cichocka said the rats have even attacked the cables in his car engine and he regularly finds rat faeces in the engine compartment of his BMW.

Mrs Cichocka said: “We are doing our best. We are trying all the time but what can you do on your own?”

Peter Dale, director of regeneration and environment at Doncaster Council, said: “We have visited this property on several occasions, most recently in September 2015. On this occasion an appointment was made but when we arrived there was no-one at home.

“We left a card asking the customer to contact us again but have not had any communication since. We will be making contact with the Cichockas to arrange another visit.

“Rats are a problem in many areas. People putting rubbish out on the streets and in gardens, as well as leaving out food for birds and pets, will encourage rats.  

“It is important that any fly-tipping is reported to Doncaster Council immediately by calling 01302 736000 so that we can deal with the issue.

“That said, everyone in Doncaster has a responsibility to keep our borough clean and tidy and we encourage residents to take pride in their neighbourhoods.”