A WORCESTER man is worried an area littered with rubbish behind his home is attracting rats.

Dan Jones, aged 35, contacted the city council after noticing Little Perdiswell recreation ground, which stands behind his Droitwich Road home in Claines, was a mess.

But Mr Jones, who runs a hair salon, said despite calling the city council on four separate occasions about the land, they ignored his calls. He said: "The area is just covered in cans and rubbish.

"The problem is that there is no bins on the site, so there is nowhere for people to throw their rubbish away so they throw it on the ground. I have tried to get the city council to do something about it but they don't seem bothered. There are also rats about. It is really unpleasant. It isn't just the odd crisp packet.

"It is almost like someone got a huge bin bag and emptied it out.

"It is something I feel that should be done. Areas such as this are precious. It is recreation ground and if it is not maintained then we could lose it. People should respect it and try to look after the resource they have."

Carolyn Smith, communications officer for Worcester City Council, explained the land was privately owned and not the responsibility of the council.

However, they have promised to do something about the area shortly and would be keeping a close eye on it in the future.

Mrs Smith added: "We care very much about the reputation of the city. It is not strictly speaking our concern but we will help to clean it."