REDBRIDGE is the sixth worst borough in London for rat-related complaints.

More than 8,000 complaints have been recorded by the council, with the problem described as “getting out of control” by one angry taxpayer.

At a council meeting on Thursday, January 18, Ms Greta Rene asked the Labour-led administration what they are doing about the issue.

Ms Rene said: “The problem is getting out of control in Redbridge.”

Councillor Sheila Bain, cabinet member for civic pride, conceded that rats are a problem but one that does not just affect Redbridge.

She said: “Rats are becoming a problem across the country. You are correct, the council received 8,213 complaints over the past five years. The biggest reason for the problem is rubbish.

“The council works hard to get rid of rodents. The excessive feeding of birds around the borough is a growing concern. The council will take action against people who excessively feed birds. Signage is up to discourage bird feeding.”

Redbridge Council says rats pose a significant health risk and carry a range of serious diseases which can be passed on to humans.

The most serious diseases are Weil’s disease, plague, salmonella food poisoning and toxoplasmosis.

Rats can contaminate food with droppings and urine and cause structural damage to buildings by gnawing through timber, pipes and cables.

Cllr Bain ruled out the introduction of a free council-run rat extermination service on the grounds of cost.

She added: “Government grant cuts to our funding means if we introduce a free service now we stretch our resources.”