TWO pensioners are begging their neighbour to cut down trees they claim are ruining their lives.

Grace Jones, 87, has lived in her bungalow on Roggel Road, Canvey, for 11 years.

However, her insurance company warned her in 2001 the roots from poplar and conifer trees are causing her garden to subside.

The trees, both more than ten metres high, are in neighbour Eileen Fox's garden, situated behind Mrs Jones's house, on Handel Road.

Mrs Jones said: "I'm sick with worry because I feel like my bungalow is moving. My fence is broken because the tree trunk is growing into it. I've had to spend £700 on my garage roof because the other tree grew into it.

"I also spent £850 on paving stones because they're all cracked from tree roots sucking up the water and making the ground move.

"The problem is getting worse. I'm dreading September coming because the leaves fall off the trees and create a carpet outside my house.

"I'm terrified I'm going to fall."

Jean Marks, 75, who lives next door to Mrs Jones, has also complained the trees are blocking out light in her garden.

She claims pigeons roost in the trees, so her husband, who suffers from a lung condition, cannot go outside because of the risk of infection from pigeon droppings.

When the two approached Castle Point Council for help, they were told nothing could be done.

Mrs Marks said: "It's sad because all we want to do is enjoy our gardens, but nobody seems to be able to help us. Those trees are ruining our quality of life."

Councillor Ray Howard, chairman of the environment committee, said: "Disputes over trees can be very distressing for those involved.

"But they are actually a civil matter and there is very little we as a council can do.

"Councils only have the power to act when a tree is dangerous, or once damage to a building is so severe the building itself becomes dangerous.

"However, I would be happy to meet those involved to see if we can help find a resolution."

Mrs Fox was unavailable for comment when the Echo tried to contact her.