Talking to people in the local shop today and was surprised to hear that more than a few have had problems with rats over recent weeks. The local vicar has recently had a pest control company out to eradicate the problem at the vicarage. The pest control person informed him that this probably occurred as a result of a major water pipe burst about a mile away as the crow flies (or the rat runs). See:
My house has lost 2/3rds of its electrical circuits. The remaining 1/3rd is fortunately much more modern, an entirely separate system with its own cu and goes upwards rather than underfloor. The place is a mess of extension leads at present to keep essentials running.
Fortunately a lifelong friend and qualified (up to date) electrician is coming to start rewiring next Monday. This will give me the weekend to clear 25 years worth of accumulated clutter from the loft, 2 bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom and conservatory/utility area.
What joy !!
On a brighter note, the old place is long overdue for a rewire anyway and a good opportunity to update the place a bit
Rats!