The Sentinel commented Rat infestations in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire homes rise…

Stoke-on-Trent City Council revealed there have been 195, 198 and 200 call-outs this year in January, February and March respectively.

RAT infestations in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire homes have dramatically increased, according to new figures and pest control companies.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council revealed there have been 195, 198 and 200 call-outs this year in January, February and March respectively.

The council said they usually receive 2,400 calls a year relating to rat problems.

Statistics released by the British Pest Control Association have revealed that in 2013, local authorities in the West Midlands dealt with 48,555 rat treatments - the worst-hit region in the UK.

Newcastle Borough Council - who have introduced charges for rat pest control services - said the call-out figure remains high at around 1,100 requests per year.

A spokesperson for Newcastle Borough Council added: "Introducing charges should help secure the continued provision of popular in-house pest control services for residents whilst considering the council's ever-decreasing budget and resources to continue to offer a 'free' or fully subsidised service."

Garden bird feeders, dumped food, wet weather and fly-tipping are among some of the reasons given by pest control companies for the increase.

Dave Cooper, of Clayton-based JD's Pest & Vermin Control, said: "Call-outs have certainly been on the up since September, with rats mainly residing in gardens and hedgerows.

"I would say from my point of view, they've gone up by between 20 and 30 per cent."

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The Sentinel commented Rat infestations in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire homes rise...