Garden decking triggers rat plague

Garden make-over shows have placed decking at the heart of the trendy home - however it is attracting a plague of unwanted guests.

Pest control experts warn the void beneath decking is proving an ideal breeding ground for millions of rats and mice.

The wooden boards keeps out the cold and rain in the winter, fallen leaves can be dragged in, providing bedding, while tasty morsels from the barbecue provide a banquet.

Now gardeners countrywide are being warned by pest control experts to take action to combat the problems of the hiding place for vermin only yards from their home.