AN angry allotment holder who is locked in a battle to keep animals on her plot has accused a council of bullying tactics.

Pamela von Kaenel has a plot in Wittonwood Road, Frinton, with her daughters, who keep pet chickens there.

She has been fighting against the town council’s plan to ban livestock from the site.

Pamela said she had received several “overly officious” letters from the council about her use of the plot, and described it as “bullying”.

She believes the council does not have the right to ban her from keeping animals at the site, citing rules in the Allotments Act 1950.

But the town council insisted it was legally within its rights and hit back strongly over bullying claims.

Clerk Myrna Liles said: “The lady has been subjected to the same rules and regulations as everyone else.

“In the past, the council has turned a blind eye to animals, but we have to tighten the regulations.

“According to the rules, if we were to allow animals to be kept there, we would have to employ someone to inspect the allotments on a daily basis.

“This council goes to extreme lengths to help people.

It is hurtful to be accused of bullying and it isn’t right.”