'House of rubbish' man given bill

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A man whose house was so full of rubbish that council workers needed 17 skips to clear it has been left with a bill of up to £78,000.

Anthony Cockerham, of Hetton Road, Oakwood, Leeds, also had a rat infestation at his home, but refused to allow workers to deal with the problem.

Now a county court judge has ordered him to pay £38,000 for the clean up and legal costs which could run to £40,000.

A council spokesman said taxpayers would not foot the clean-up bill.

The long-running dispute between Mr Cockerham and the city council started in June 2005 when complaints were made by neighbours over a rat infestation at his property.

'Obstructive every day'

When council officials gained a warrant to enter the property they found rooms "stuffed floor to ceiling" with possessions, bin bags full of rubbish and old newspapers.

Recorder Mark Bury heard Mr Cockerham had "been obstructive every single minute of every single day" refusing entry to his property and trying to prevent clearance work taking place.

Councillor Steve Smith, who is responsible for environmental services, said: "You may say an Englishman's home is his castle, but when public health is at stake we have to take measures to protect people."

The money, on which interest will accrue, will be paid by levying a charge on Mr Cockerham's house so that when it is sold proceeds from the sale will pay off the amount owed.