"VICIOUS" nesting seagulls are keeping residents hostage as they swoop down and attack people attempting to leave their homes.

Gordon Reid, of Sandy's Road in Barbourne, is fearful for the safety of residents and visitors who could be attacked by the aggressive seagulls nesting on his roof.

He said: "I honestly fear for our safety. I am planning a barbecue this weekend and there will be young children visiting.

"The thought of these birds attacking them and scaring them is very real.

"They have come down and tried to attack me and my neighbour several times and have covered our gardens with poo.

"They are vicious and I have no idea what to do about this."

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The nesting birds directly overlook both Mr Reid's garden and the neighbouring garden to the left of the property as well.

They can be seen overhead circling and loudly squawking to warn off people before divebombing.

Mr Reid said: "I am not cruel and I do not want them harmed, I just need a resolution.

"At this stage I am going to have to go and put spikes up there or something similar as they will be back again otherwise.

"I phoned the company who said that they can only intervene once the gull chicks have fledge.

"I think it is a matter of public health."

Ian Palmer, Mr Reid's neighbour, has also been targeted by the gulls when trying to get into his garden.

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Worcester News: Mr Palmer was 'targeted' by the bird.Mr Palmer was 'targeted' by the bird. (Image: Ian Palmer)

He said: "I luckily caught this on video. The very moment I stepped out, the gull swooped down and narrowly avoided me while letting out a loud cry.

"Earlier today, I was getting ready to head out and put on a waterproof hat and coat when the bird defecated on me.

"Gordon and I are both dog owners so it is a concern when our dogs are outside as well, plus the weather has been largely really good lately and it makes you want to not sit in your garden and enjoy it."

A spokesperson for Worcester City Council said: "Whilst we don’t have a statutory duty to deal with gulls nesting on private property, we do our best to offer support to businesses and residents to help make their properties gull-proof.

"Anyone who has an issue with gulls causing a nuisance, can contact Worcestershire Regulatory Services by emailing enquiries@worcsregservices.gov.uk or calling 01905 822799. Alternatively, reports may be made online at www.worcester.gov.uk/report-it."