IT is with a very heavy heart that I have to report what can only be described as the fall of the house of Eden – Windlestone Hall, in Spennymoor.

Durham County Council must be held accountable for the dilapidated state of this once majestic country estate as it now lies in virtual ruin.

Heads must role for the action taken by an arrogant self-governing patronising council.

It passed ownership of this North-East jewel to a conman who stripped of anything of value during his custody before finding himself in the custody of HMP, for the price of a mere scuttle of coal.

The hall is now in great danger of never being saved, as the lead has now been stolen from the roof, the beautiful ornate ceilings are now sodden and collapsed and all of the surrounding land has been sold off.

Durham County Council’s leaders have allowed an act of blatant vandalism on a colossal scale with their blessing and indeed backing.

An irreplaceable piece of our history is disappearing before our very eyes.

It’s a disgusting misuse of councillors power and legal proceedings must take place.

John Cumberland, Rushyford