NEIGHBOURS of ousted antisocial couple Paul James and Sara Penlington have praised Basildon Council for taking action against them.

The couple were banned from going into their flat in Clay Hill Road for three months while a case is put together to try to formally evict them.

In a civil hearing, Penlington, 39, and James, 36, who are both recovering heroin addicts, were accused of dealing drugs in the communal area of the block of ten flats.

Drugs paraphernalia including syringes, spoons and foil was also found. Residents praised Basildon Council on Friday. One mum, who didn’t want to be named, said: “You get a lot of drunks and druggies and it’s right opposite a school.

“My kids see police officers outside there all the time and ask me what’s going on. I’ve just had to explain they are keeping an eye on people to make sure we’re safe.

“It’s nice they won’t be there anymore. Fingers crossed they will be gone for good. It’s nice to know the council will take action against these kinds of people.”

A shop worker, who also asked not to be named, said it was high time the pair were booted out.

She said: “This has been going on for years and years.

“I am 100 per cent for it. It has been constant there and the sooner this is made official, the better.”

Nethermayne councillor Geoff Williams, whose ward covers Clay Hill Road, said: “I’ve been aware of the problems there for some time. It’s a long process, but I welcome the fact there is action.

“People who are creating nuisance in this way should take heed in what is happening and it should be a lesson for all those who seek to make their neighbours’ lives a misery.”

James was jailed for four months for attacking two police officers after being told in court he faced eviction from the council flat.