Pest controller James Verney said the acidic droppings left on the steps to Knutsford Crown Court would eat away at the stone.

He has now offered to clean the area before the droppings cause long-term damage.

Earlier this month the Knutsford Guardian reported the problem to Chester.

But yesterday (Tuesday) court spokesman Wray Ferguson said the steps had not been cleaned because the building was currently not in use.

"During the summer the Sessions House is not used so there is no need for the steps to be cleaned," she said. "The building will be re-opened on Monday and if there is a problem I will have it cleaned up right away."

The court house in Toft Road is one of Knutsford's best known landmarks.

"It is such a lovely building," said Mr Verney. "It is a shame that it has been left to deteriorate."

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