A "devastated" couple have told how they woke up to find their stunning £850,000 riverside cottage on the Norfolk Broads was sinking.
Ken and Gail Pitts discovered to their horror that their idyllic thatched home on the River Bure at Horning, Norfolk, had developed a severe tilt around three months ago.
According to neighbours, the 1970s-built cottage started sinking shortly after it was re-thatched, with some suggesting that the wooden pile foundations may have buckled under the weight.
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Gail and Ken had to move out of their home, where they have lived together for 17 years, to await news of whether it will have to be demolished.
Signs have now been put up around the property, reading: "Danger" and "Unsafe" to warn curious members of the public.
On Wednesday, Ken said there had been no warning signs that the west side of their cottage had began to sink. He says it simply happened "overnight", leaving them "devastated".
Ken and Gail declined to speak further and said they are working with their insurers to find a resolution.
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Their reed-thatched home leaning significantly to one side has caused a stir among locals and passers-by.
The three-bedroom house has a large garden with a river frontage, along with allocated boat mooring and fishing opportunities.
The master bedroom has a king-sized bed and a balcony, there's a well-equipped kitchen as well as a light and airy living room leading out onto a large riverside sundeck.
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The village in which the thatched cottage is located has shops, pubs and restaurants.
A Broads Authority spokesperson said: "It is a huge shame that this lovely cottage appears to be in such a precarious position.
"Unfortunately it is something that can be an ongoing danger for properties built on unstable ground. We wish the owners all the best as they assess what can be done.
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"If the cottage is within our area as a planning authority we would offer free pre-planning advice should this be needed in the future."
Here's hoping they can save this beautiful property.
Featured Image Credit: SWNS