ALVECHURCH residents are seeking compensation for damage caused by sewage water which flooded their homes from a blocked drain, writes Melina Cannon.

Four family homes and about eight flats occupied by elderly and disabled residents at Buckleys Green were affected by the incident, which happened two months ago.

Residents Association chairman Kate Marsh said water company Severn Trent was notified of problems three days before the drain actually flooded.

She also said: "The company was informed that the sewer on Swans Length was blocked and bubbling over so they were fully aware something was wrong.

"Severn Trent said it was an act of vandalism, that the inspection cover had been left off and someone had put concrete blocks down into the drain, but the blocks down there were green and must have been there for a very long time.

"There must have been more than 18 inches of water since it came up over my doorstep. I lost my downstairs carpets and kitchen cushion flooring and have had to redecorate. And many of the gardens have not yet been sanitised.

"Those in the flats and myself are definitely seeking compensation because we believe it shouldn't have happened."

A Severn Trent spokesman said: "There was a blockage in the sewer which made it overflow and flood properties in the vicinity, which was because a lump of concrete had been put down the sewer.

"We had to remove the concrete and clean the sewer and have since written to the homeowners to inform them about what happened and why. They have also been sent details of how to make a claim for compensation."