Published: Thursday, 28th August, 2008 15:30
OAP'S INFESTED SLUM HELL
By Amanda Keenan
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AN ELDERLY Barrhead man is living in squalor in an infested derelict house which was believed to be abandoned.
Frail Douglas Craig, believed to be in his eighties, is living in a cesspit of filth at West Arthurlie Cottage in the Lochlibo area of the town.
The house is infested with maggots and flies, littered rubbish, broken glass, overgrown trees and abandoned cars are rotting in the garden. And recluse, Douglas, has blocked off both doorways so it is unclear how he is able to get in and out of the cottage which is falling apart.
Now social services are investigating the situation amid fears that Douglas may be putting his health at risk by living there.
A spokesperson for East Renfrewshire social services said: “We will be looking into this situation and will be contacting Mr Douglas to speak to him about his living arrangements.
“Unfortunately we cannot impose our services on to an elderly person if they do not want help. However, if there is a health or environmental concern then we can take appropriate steps to help the person.
“If his home is infested then our Environmental Health Officers will impose an order to ensure the area is cleaned up.
“We would like to thank the Barrhead News for making us aware of this situation.”
Residents in the quiet street believed the cottage which was built in 1856 to be abandoned.
One neighbour said: “I never see anyone coming or going to the house, so because it is so old I just assumed it was derelict.
“It is surrounded by trees and you would never know that someone was living there.
“The house looks in bad condition and it is a shame if an elderly man is living there because the house must need a lot of repairs.
“The place looks like something out of a horror film you just wonder how he is managing to survive living there.”
The Barrhead News tried to contact Mr Douglas at his home but he was unavailable for comment.
Do you know Mr Douglas or do you know if he has relatives in the Barrhead area, if so, contact Barrhead News on 0141 889 0511.
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Tribute to mum aged 32