A COUNCILLOR has said flying tipping and overflowing bins , as well as irresponsible residents are leading to an issue with rats across Bolton.

And only this week, one disgusted resident posted a picture of a dead rat on social media to highlight the problem.

The rat measured, 20inches nose to tail, according to Peter Haslam of Deane. It was spotted in Kirkebrok Road a few days ago.

Peter said: “There has been a consistent problem with rats in the area for some time.

“I pick two bags of rubbish a week from the area around my house, which is at the bottom end of Hulton Lane, in Deane.

“When I first saw the rat I was mortified as it’s the largest I’ve seen around here.

“It’s only in the past 10 years that there’s been a major issue with vermin.

“The most annoying thing is, the rat will be left there to rot or to be eaten by the other rats. This is something I’ve also witnessed."

Cllr Susan Baines, the borough’s health and wellbeing cabinet member, said: “Due to indiscriminate fly tipping, overflowing bins, takeaway boxes and food on the floor, there are a number of rats.

“This is a prevalent issue in Deane, Horwich and Blackrod and other areas across the borough.

“The rats are mainly to do with bins and them overflowing, but it’s also to do with irresponsible residents.”

Peter said: “I believe the council do come out when needed but if it’s an isolated incident or you report a dead rat it’s normally up to two weeks before they turn up and all that’s left is just a stain where it was.

“The outside of the mill on Kirkebrok Road is an eyesore where people discard their eaten takeaway packaging and also in the back streets where people throw their household rubbish.

“I’ve sent three names and addresses of fly tippers to the council and nothing seems to come from it.

“If it wasn’t for the voluntary litter pickers of Deane and Daubhill it would be a lot worse.

“With three new takeaways opening in the area it looks like us pickers will be needing bigger bags.”