‘My clifftop house is collapsing into the sea but I won’t move’ says defiant owner, 82

An pensioner’s clifftop house is collapsing into the sea but he is refusing to leave.

George Gardiner lives alone in the property in Luccombe on the Isle of Wight and has done, overlooking the English Channel, for 22 years.

Large cracks have started appearing after a water leak, but the 82-year-old won’t budge.

His garden and drive have already dropped 5ft and Southern Water has even offered him alternative accommodation.

The house was previously a tea room, which George ran with his late wife.

Last year, a water main burst and new cracks emerged before the water company came out for repairs.

Isle of Wight Council has partially closed the path outside.

The former air ambulance pilot told the BBC: “I do wonder what is going to happen to me in the end, but it’s just one of those things isn’t it?

“At least this time of the year, everything is drying out a lot. I’m hoping to get a good Summer here at least… but who knows?

“I’ve got the fence to support me if I need to hang on… I manage. It’ll be alright.”

A spokesperson for Southern Water told the Mirror: “We are aware of Mr Gardiner’s case and we received a claim last year in relation to a leak on a communication pipe which has allegedly caused subsidence to the property.

“This matter is complex and has been referred to our insurers who are currently investigating liability.”