A WOMAN who was illegally evicted by her landlady has been allowed back into her home thanks to the intervention of Bury Council.

The council's housing advice service stepped in after the tenant was evicted a month ago from her privately-rented property near Simister, Prestwich.

Just ten days later Oldham County Court granted an injunction forcing the landlady to allow her tenant back into the property.

The landlady had initially evicted her tenant without first obtaining the required court order and execution of an eviction warrant.

At the county court hearing, the landlady agreed not to interfere with the peace and quiet enjoyment of the tenant.

It is a criminal offence if a landlord or their agent illegally evicts or harasses a tenant with a view to the tenant giving up possession of the property.

In addition to criminal proceedings, an illegal eviction could lead to a claim for substantial compensation.

Brian Coulson, the council's housing advice development manager said: "The council takes its duty to prevent homelessness and illegal evictions or harassment of tenants very seriously.

"Bury Council will investigate such complaints and will not hesitate to instigate criminal proceedings. We have a very well trained housing advice team that assists people across the borough with matters connected to housing problems."

Anyone who feels they have a housing problem or believes they are at risk from being evicted unlawfully or harassed by their landlord can call the advice service on 0161 253 7557.