A DILAPIDATED family home left empty for almost eight years has become ‘an eyesore’.

Residents living near the property on Chester Road in Mere, Knutsford, are incensed that it has been neglected for so long.

Two trees are growing out of the ruins of the spacious bungalow, windows have been smashed, the roof is leaking and the back of the property has collapsed.

Knutsford Guardian: Trees are growing out of the ruins of the bungalowTrees are growing out of the ruins of the bungalow

Neighbours say squatters have broken in several times and personal belongings from previous occupants litter the overgrown garden.

“It is an eyesore, an absolute monstrosity,” one resident told The Guardian.

Knutsford Guardian: The garden is completely overgrownThe garden is completely overgrown

“People don’t even know there is a house here, it is hidden by so many trees.

“You can’t even walk along the pavement because it is so overgrown.

“The property has already collapsed at the back. We’re worried about where it is going to fall next.

“It is now a danger and a health and fire hazard.”

READ > Driver avoids ban to keep business and care for disabled parents

Knutsford Guardian: The conservatory is in ruinsThe conservatory is in ruins

The abandoned bungalow is in a very sought-after area, just down the road from The Mere luxury hotel and championship golf course.

Similar properties nearby sell for in excess of three-quarters of a million pounds and more.

Knutsford Guardian: This aerial picture taken by a drone shows how trees now grow through the property This aerial picture taken by a drone shows how trees now grow through the property

Another resident said: “We just can’t understand why nothing is being done.

“We have complained to Cheshire East Council.

“This could be a lovely family home.”

Knutsford Guardian: The abandoned living room where pictures still hang on the wallThe abandoned living room where pictures still hang on the wall

Peering through the shattered living room window, it looks like time has stood still.

A television is in the corner of the room with a remote control perched on top.

Knutsford Guardian: A television still sits on a table in the corner of the living roomA television still sits on a table in the corner of the living room

Pictures are still on the wall, sofas have been upturned and pots and pans lie strewn across the carpet.

Cotton reels from a scattered needlework basket mingle with overgrown weeds on the ground outside.

Knutsford Guardian: The former spacious family home has become a wreckThe former spacious family home has become a wreck

A child’s upturned bike rests beside a large barbecue.

One resident said: “Squatters have been in there. I saw lights on one evening, went round and found loads of candles had been lit.

Knutsford Guardian: Huge trees, shrubs and overgrowth have taken over the gardenHuge trees, shrubs and overgrowth have taken over the garden

“There is no gas or electricity, this is a fire risk.

“Neighbours put up fencing after they found a car parked outside.

“It is not acceptable. We shouldn’t have to put up with this.

“We just wish they would board it up, clear the site and make it safe.”

Knutsford Guardian: Water seeps into the bungalow through the roofWater seeps into the bungalow through the roof

A spokesman for Cheshire East Council said: “The council is aware of the condition of this property.

“It is currently involved in a legal process aimed at resolving outstanding matters.

“Until these matters are resolved, there is no further comment the council can give at this time.”