People in the Copperfield area of Lydd on Romney Marsh in Kent have waded through excrement floating outside their front doors since Storm Ciaran hit at the beginning of the month.

They compare the “disgusting” state to “a Third World country”.

At least 30 people, many of them elderly, have been affected – which Southern Water blames on issues with a pumping station.

Yet residents say the problem is far from new and it has blighted the area for two decades.

Southern Water installed portable toilets and washing facilities, though many elderly and disabled locals were unable to use these.

Resident Michael Taylor said: “Before they brought the portaloos, I had to drive 30 minutes to a toilet.

“We have managed to wash once or twice in the garden using a hose but not everyone can do that – we have plenty of elderly and vulnerable people around here.”

“It’s affecting everyone’s mental health. At some points, we were having to paddle through six inches of sewage to get to our front door.”

Mr Taylor is worried about structural damage to his house, adding: “It may cost a few thousand pounds to sort it.”

Philippa Ormerod lives on the estate with daughter Eve, who uses a wheelchair. Philippa said: “I had poo floating on my driveway last week.”

“They put a toilet vehicle out front but my daughter wouldn’t be able to use that.”

David Hazelwood, in the area for 23 years, claims residents should be reimbursed for bills.

Southern Water said: “Consistent heavy rainfall is putting significant pressure on our waste-water pumping station.”

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