A PENSIONER says he would rather quit his Westbury home than comply with a court order to get rid of 10 of his 12 cats.

John Powell has a dozen cats living in his Two Rivers property and neighbours have been complaining it is a health hazard.

Mr Powell said: "The judge has ordered me to get rid of all but two of my cats by August 31, but I'll give up the house first. There's no way I am getting rid of my cats."

Mr Powell has seven pedigree cats and five moggies, aged between nine and 19, which may be too old to rehome easily.

He says Two Rivers gave him permission to build a cattery in his garden and is upset that they have now taken him to court.

"I had all the cats long before Two Rivers Housing came into being – I used to have 24, but now I have got them down to 12.

"I got rid of a lot of cats and they are all neutered and won't be replaced when they die. I can't understand why they can't leave us in peace."

Mr Powell shows some of his cats and others are purely pets, but he says he loves them all and will not part with them.

Sue Wilson, neighbourhood housing manager for Two Rivers said: "We have been working with Mr Powell for a number of years to find a solution that is in the interest of Mr Powell and local residents, as well as the welfare of all the animals living at the property. 

"Several options have been explored, including the construction of a cattery in the garden, however, these have been unsuccessful and as a result the court has ruled that only two cats can remain at the property. 

"Our residents are welcome to keep family pets providing they are looked after responsibly and do not cause damage or nuisance to the property or neighbours. 

"We sympathise with Mr Powell, and are happy to liaise with animal protection agencies on his behalf."