THE owner of a Thelwall property featured in last week's Warrington Guardian has spoken out.

He says the former corner shop is not derelict nor are there any rats.

And he said the occupiers, who do not wish to be named, have lived there for many years and continue to do so.

He added that they accept that the exterior of the property needs tidying and will do so as soon as circumstances allow.

He added: "This article has caused great personal stress."