Dozens of rats are blighting a back street in Newcastle city centre as those working in the area demand action from the city council.
Packs of rats can be seen on a daily basis in the lane which runs behind Stowell Street and Newcastle's town wall, according to workers and residents.
The lane stores many industrial-sized bins, which are collected by Newcastle City Council, and these are used by the popular streets' restaurants and bars.
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It is understood that those in the area often see up to 12 rats at once in the back street and concerns have been raised that it is becoming a health hazard.
Tony Corcoran, secretary of the nearby Tyneside Irish Centre, said the problem has been going on for years and it's getting worse.
He said: "There is vermin around Stowell Street because of the rubbish left out.
"The street at the back of Stowell Street, by the city walls, is full of rubbish bins.
"That's an ancient, historic laneway.
"I think is ridiculous to have it jam-full of bins.
"The rats can be seen early in the morning or late at night.
"I think the problem is getting worse."
One man, who did not want to be named, said he had reported the rodents to Newcastle City Council and wanted to see the local authority take action to get rid of them.
"There have been mornings where I have easily seen a dozen rats," he said.
"You only have to look down the back lane and you can see anywhere between three and a dozen rats without having to really look for them.
"It's getting out of hand and it's a health hazard."
Newcastle City Council said that it will be sending a pest control team to assess the situation and take action if needed.
A council spokesman said: "We appreciate seeing rats can be distressing for residents and it is an issue we take very seriously.
“Our pest control service has not received any recent requests about the area, but we will be sending a team to assess the situation and take action if necessary.
“Rats are often attracted to bags of rubbish left beside bins so it is everyone’s responsibility to dispose of waste correctly.
“Residents and businesses can help with this by ensuring all waste is bagged, put in bins with lids on and not overfilling them."
Any residents with concerns about rats in their neighbourhood can contact Newcastle City Council's Envirocall helpline on 0191 278 7878.
