An elderly man has agreed to move out of his home in Shanklin, Isle of Wight, after it was destroyed by a landslip.

George Gardiner had been determined to stay at the former Luccombe Tea Gardens, where a major landslip tore through his grounds in 2022, leaving the house inaccessible to visitors except by ladder and the public footpath that runs through the garden closed.

But the cliff-edge property has since moved to such an extend, Mr Gardiner has had no option but to evacuate.

He told the County Press last February: "I'm refusing to go. The council are saying the footpath is not safe and have blocked it off. It's my home and I've done a lot of work here, I don't want to leave."

Isle of Wight County Press: The house in Luccombe a year ago. Picture by Graham GardnerThe house in Luccombe a year ago. Picture by Graham Gardner (Image: Graham Gardner)

Mr Gardiner has long been in a battle with Southern Water, as he believes a  leaking pipe caused subsidence.

Southern Water said at the time: "We are aware of Mr Gardiner’s case and we received a claim last year in relation to a leak on a communication pipe which has allegedly caused subsidence to the property.

"This matter is complex and has been referred to our insurers who are currently investigating liability."

Isle of Wight County Press: The footpath is closedThe footpath is closed (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)

This week, Southern Water said site investigations have been completed and a report is being prepared, for consideration by their insurers and legal team. 

Southern Water has offered six months of alternative accommodation for Mr Gardiner, who has accepted the offer. There is an option to extend if necessary. 

Southern Water said they have been in constant contact with Mr Gardiner.