RESIDENTS in Westhoughton claim a plague of black and green flies has converged on their homes.

Flats at Birch House have been covered in tiny black insects for more than three weeks.

Tenants at the flats and three neighbouring bungalows, all belonging to Bolton at Home, say they have appealed for help to get rid of the swarm of critters but to no avail.

Grandmother, Margaret Smith, 65, said: "We've been absolutely plagued by black and green flies.

"They are all over the outside of the houses and our security fence. They've started coming inside so as soon as you go in you have to rush to shut the door behind you.

"We've been told to keep the windows and doors closed but that's no good. No one will come and get rid of them but why should we have to kill them."

Prior to the fly problems, the properties reported issues with a ladybird infestation but, as the bugs are not classed as pests, residents were forced to purchase pesticides themselves to get rid of them.

However, they have now been informed the fly problem could have been caused by the death of the ladybirds which help to keep the fly population down.

Residents believe the issue steams from the sap coming from a near-by birch tree and have reported the issue to both Bolton at home and Bolton Council.

A council spokesman said officers had been out and identified a number of "harmless garden insects" on the railings by the properties, but ruled they cannot and should not be treated with pesticide.

Bolton at home has also looked into the reports and reported not being aware of any unusual circumstances requiring further investigation or action.

A spokesperson reassured residents that the landlords would routinely check trees on its estates.