We hate public footpath that stretches through our property – strangers threaten us and our home has lost £60k in value

A COUPLE who hate a public footpath that stretches through their property claim strangers threaten them.

Jean and Graham Underdown bought their home in Clos Cwm Barri in Barry, Wales, in 1999.

Footpath 73, which is on the Underdowns’ property, gives walkers access to Porthkerry Country Park from the housing estate.

The pair have attempted on numerous occasions to have the footpath removed.

Vale of Glamorgan Council dismissed applications to have it deleted in 2009 and last month.

The couple allege that breeze blocks have been thrown at their cars – with one written off.

They also say that a valuation in 2012 showed their house was worth £60,000 less because of the footpath.

“I have had people wanting to fight me on the drive, a car written off, dogs in the house – you name it we have had it,” Graham told .

“I have had one car written off and one breeze block put through the window of the present car.

Jean said: “The actual footpath is only one metre wide but they don’t stick to the one metre. They walk right the way across the whole width of the drive.

“Some people like to walk over and have a look at what I am growing in the garden and things like that. It is intrusive.”

A Vale of Glamorgan Council spokesman said: “This matter was considered in detail, as was the comprehensive documentation submitted, at the meeting of the council’s Public Rights of Way Sub-Committee.

“The committee determined that the application to delete the footpath as recorded on the definitive map be declined.

“The applicant has the right to appeal this decision. We understand this is currently being considered.”