A Lancashire village is enduring a living nightmare as a plague of blood-sucking flies continues to swarm homes and residents despite the onset of winter, a season when insect activity normally ceases.
Life Made 'Impossible' by Swarming Insects
People living in Firsby say they are now afraid to open their windows or doors for fear of letting in thousands of biting stable flies. The infestation has become so severe that it is affecting their daily lives, preventing normal activities and even deterring visitors. One resident's 16-year-old dog, Cat, was bitten so badly on the ear that amputation of the tip may be required.
Zena Thomas, a 60-year-old who has lived in her home for over three decades, claims the problem began when a calf-rearing business opened nearby a few years ago. While issues started soon after, she states the situation has dramatically worsened this year, persisting into the colder months.
"This is my home, not only can we not use it, but it makes life a nightmare," Zena explained. "When you mention it to people they think it's a few flies. But there's thousands of them, you can't get in your car or leave your windows open."
Pets and Property Under Relentless Attack
The flies, identified as stable flies, resemble common houseflies but deliver a painful bite. They thrive in environments with rotting manure and can spread infection. Zena reports that her five dogs, including Siberian huskies, come in from the garden covered in the pests, which target their noses and ears despite their thick coats.
The infestation has also caused significant property damage. Zena's car windows are coated in fly excrement that is reportedly "virtually impossible to remove," severely obscuring visibility. The sheer volume of insects makes sitting outdoors or hosting family gatherings unbearable for much of the year.
Another resident, 55-year-old Sean Roachford, highlighted the impact on his family life. "My grandchildren can't even really come over. The flies do bite, so they have to be careful. We've all been bitten," he said. He noted the problem intensifies annually, linking it directly to the expanding local calf business.
Authorities Pass the Buck as Problem Persists
Frustrated residents seeking a solution have hit a bureaucratic wall. The Environment Agency has stated the case falls "outside of their remit" and is a matter for the local authority. East Lindsey District Council has been approached for comment on the ongoing crisis.
For now, the people of Firsby feel trapped in their own homes, facing a relentless insect invasion that shows no sign of abating with the winter frost. With official channels proving unresponsive, the community's hope for relief from what they describe as 'hell' remains uncertain.
