A pensioner said a DIY superstore will have to be built around him because he refuses to move.

Jim Daniels, 86, has lived in Hoppit House in Braintree Road, Cressing, with wife Joyce, 85, for more than 50 years.

Braintree Properties LLP has applied for planning permission to build a B&Q superstore on land bordering his house and has bought the adjoining house.

He believes they will need to use his land, which covers about two acres and also contains two outbuildings, for access to the site.

However, the company said it will not need it.

He said: “I’m staying put. They could offer me £1million and I wouldn’t want to know.

“I shall peg out here, there’s no doubt about that.”

See this week's Braintree Times for the full story.