Yahoo News 
Pensioner's garden gets out of control after rampant foliage consumes front of his house
Colin Melbourne, 78, has seen his £240,000 semi-detached house in Leamington Spa, Warks, taken over by fast-growing foliage
Green-fingered Colin Melbourne’s attempt to grow shrubs and flowers in his garden backfired spectacularly - when the foliage grew so fast it engulfed his entire house.
Mr Melbourne, 78, has seen his £240,000 semi-detached house in Leamington Spa, Warks, consumed by rampant ivy and conifers, leaving it almost invisible to passers-by.
His front garden is so overrun with plants the windows, front door and even the garage are hidden beneath the sprawling greenery.
His stunned neighbours now want their local council to help him bring his wayward garden back under control.
One resident, who did not want to be named, said: 'Mr Melbourne lives in the house and has done for many years.
'He is often seen planting flowers and shrubs but the weather this year has sent them skyward.
'The front garden has also been a bit unruly but this summer the good weather has sent the ivy and conifers shooting up.
'I feel sorry for the people living directly next door because their home is very nicely kept and has recently been repainted.
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'I hate to say it but the house has become a bit of an eyesore and the council really should take some action if for no other reason than to help Mr Melbourne control his plants.
'It must be really depressing living like that, it must be very gloomy inside.'
Mr Melbourne took up gardening after retiring from his job as a market trader.
Another neighbour added: 'Mr Melbourne is no trouble to us or anyone on the street.
'His efforts to improve his garden have clearly got away from him and we'd all happily help him if he wanted us to but I daresay he's too proud to ask.'
Mr Melbourne yesterday refused to comment.
In February last year homeowner Kenneth Mould, 50, was fined £1,000 after he failed to tidy up the front of his home in Rugeley, Staffs., which was completely obscured by ivy.
