TWO traditionally built granite properties in Porthleven that have been left empty for more than 20 years are arousing the wrath of local residents. Neighbours say it is a "scandal" that the dilapidated cottages in Peverell Terrace are being left unoccupied when there is a severe housing shortage in the port.

They have called on Kerrier district council to take action over the derelict properties, but the council says it has no powers to force the owner to sell or develop the building. The homes, which are understood to belong to Peter Cowls, of Church Row, Porthleven, have been the subject of recent vandalism and have become nothing but an eyesore.

(for more on this story see this week's Helston Packet)