A Nottinghamshire MP has called for a "deep clean" in part of his constituency following increased reports of 'rat sightings'.
Lee Anderson, Conservative MP for Ashfield has called on the district council to be more "proactive" in parts of Sutton-in-Ashfield and to deter ongoing anti-social behaviour.
It follows increased reports of rats in the New Cross part of the town.
The MP says he has had "loads of complaints" about rodents in the Outram Street area - the busiest street in Sutton - as well as "filth" and fly-tipping.
He said: "Over the past week I have received loads of complaints about rat sightings in Sutton Central and New Cross.
"Last Sunday I spent a few hours around the New Cross Area once again and I have to admit that I am actually ashamed of this area.
"There is dog mess in abundance, littering and fly-tipping are common place and the stench of weed on Outram Street can be overpowering at times.
"My only surprise is the increase in rats.
"However, I have a solution. I would suggest a deep clean for the area running alongside a more proactive approach on enforcement on offenders.
"I have constituents in this area who are fed up with the day to day filth, rats, fly tipping and anti-social behaviour. They would welcome any action to solve these issues."
The MP adds that the area is "getting worse" and has called on the Ashfield Independents, who run Ashfield District Council and have an office based on Outram Street, to "sort it out".
He said: "The situation is getting worse and residents deserve better. I have challenged Ashfield District Council to sort this out as soon as possible.
"You would think that with the Ashfield Independents' office being located here that there would be a better service - obviously not."
