Man faces eviction from property

Mr Leaman is refusing to move from his two bedroom council house

A 60-year-old man faces eviction from the home he has lived in for 28 years, because he is not the official tenant.

David Leaman is refusing to move from the two bedroom council house he had shared with his mother until her death.

But Exeter City Council wants to move Mr Leaman to a one bedroom flat and has given him notice to leave.

Council spokesman Steve Warran said: "We have to make the best use of our stock. We have no intention of making Mr Leaman homeless."

He added: "Mr Leaman has been offered four properties over the last few months, we have done everything we can to help him".

However Mr Leaman said: "Aren't we allowed to hold on to our memories anymore?

"I am aware there are families needing homes, but where am I to go?

"We all have to get old, and the memories are all we have. When they're old they may see things differently".

However Exeter City Council is threatening to go to court to get possession of the house.

Council figures show that here are more than 800 families waiting for a two bedroom home in the Exeter area alone.