A MAN whose parents have both died within the space of the last six months is fighting red tape in a bid to move into what has been his family's home for more than a quarter-of-a-century.

Alan Fishwick, who was brought up in the three-bedroomed council house in Broadway, Grange Park, along with his brother and two sisters, had hoped to take over the tenancy following the death of his father James earlier this month.

But his initial application to the council was refused on the grounds he had not lived at the address during the previous 12 months.

Alan, who currently lives with his wife Karen and three sons at another council property in nearby Cumberland Avenue, Portico, told the Star: "My parents lived at Broadway for 26 years, and my sisters, my brother and I all grew up there. It would be really upsetting for us to see the house leave the family, but because I didn't live at the property for the 12 months preceding my parents' deaths the council says I am not automatically entitled to succession.

"I currently live in a three-bedroomed council property and I can't see why we can't do a straightforward swap. In fact, our current property is actually bigger than the house in Broadway and it does need repair work doing. So, if we moved out it would be ideal for the council as they would have an empty property to work on.

"My parents spent a lot of time, energy, love and care on the house in Broadway but unfortunately they both died before they could have time to really enjoy it. I wouldn't like to see the house given to someone who didn't appreciate the work put into it and I will fight tooth and nail to keep it in the family."

Alan has already lodged an appeal with the St Helens Council's housing department and he has a 200-signature petition which he will also be handing in at the town hall. He also claims to have the support of neighbours in Broadway who have got together to write a letter on his behalf which they have forward to the council.

Meanwhile, a spokesman for the St Helens Council commented: "Mr Fishwick's appeal has been lodged and is currently under consideration by the housing section."

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