A DOUBLE amputee today claimed he had become a virtual prisoner in his own home because irresponsible pet owners are allowing their animals to use his disabled ramp as a toilet.

Tom Lupton, 54, said the problem had become so bad during the last three weeks that he had not bothered venturing out of the house he shares with his mother, Margaret, 78.

He has complained to Blackburn with Darwen Council and has also called on the help of his councillor, Paul Browne.

"It's disgusting. These animals need controlling. I use the ramp to get in and out of the house in my wheelchair and at times it has just been full of mess," said Mr Lupton, of Hilton Road, Darwen, a freelance artist who lost both his legs due to a defect in his lymph glands.

"It's been wheeled into the house and one day I saw a child fall into it. Something needs to be done urgently. People walking past think we are responsible, but we don't even have any pets. The whole area around around the house is just caked in it and we shouldn't be expected to keep cleaning it up."

Mr Browne, who has been to visit the house to inspect the problem, added: "It really is disgraceful. Animals have fouled all around Mr Lupton's house. I plan to take this matter to the top and make sure it is sorted out straight away."

A spokeswoman for Blackburn with Darwen Council added: "We take dog fouling very seriously and are very concerned. A dog warden has been to see Mr Lupton to assist him but, unfortunately, he wasn't happy with this and asked the warden to leave.

"We have a prosecution policy in relation to dog fouling and constantly bring cases before the court in relation to it."

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