Shocking Moment: Neighbor Wrecks Garden and Topples Trees with Digger in Ongoing Four-Year Feud

Table of Contents

• Shocking Moment of Destruction
• Accusations Against Sam Bancroft
• Environmental Impact
• Residents' Reactions
• Environment Agency Response
• Recent News

This is the alarming moment a troublesome neighbor wreaks havoc in the adjacent garden, using a digger to uproot trees.

Sam Bancroft is reported to have devastated the riverbank as part of a “four-year campaign” against other landowners in Bolton, Greater Manchester.

Andrea Marland captured footage of her neighbor as he appeared to excavate parts of her garden.Credit: BBC She has accused Mr. Bancroft, who resides across the waterway, of creating a 90-meter trench through her property.Credit: BBC In the astonishing footage, he appears to be digging out large amounts of soil from the riverbank.Credit: BBC

Andrea Marland recorded her neighbor as he seemingly excavated sections of her garden, which is adjacent to the River Tonge.

She has accused Mr. Bancroft of creating a 90-meter trench through her property.

Andrea also claims he audaciously drove the digger onto her land to continue his work.

In the remarkable footage, he appears to be moving large quantities of soil from one side of the river to the other.

Tree branches and other debris surround the digger as it sits in the middle of the swiftly flowing stream.

Andrea expressed her frustration, stating there is “no concern for public safety,” as the machine removes land just yards from where she stands.

The environmental regulatory agency reportedly warned Mr. Bancroft that he lacked the necessary flood risk activity permits in 2021 and 2025.

He previously asserted that his actions were essential to prevent erosion on his property.

However, Andrea, who has resided there for over 30 years, said her neighbor has never provided a reason for his actions.

She told the BBC: “He hasn’t asked for permission or explained why he’s doing this. It seems he acts as he pleases and faces no consequences.

“He’s constructed a ramp to bring his digger down to the river, and he’s excavated a 90-meter channel through my land.

“When you find yourself unable to get help because no one follows through, it leaves you in tears, shaking, and furious.”

Andrea, along with local activists, contended that he is harming local wildlife in and around the river.

Campaigner Christopher Banks claimed the digging has affected areas inhabited by kingfishers.

However, Mr. Bancroft denied the allegations, arguing that his actions have not impacted any other landowners.

He admitted to digging without permits but claimed it was due to financial constraints.

Another resident, Pauline Riley, criticized the Environmental Agency, stating that no one had come to physically assess the river.

The Environment Agency responded: “We take reports of unauthorized work in rivers seriously and will always conduct an investigation.

“Any confirmed unauthorized activity is evaluated for potential harm to the watercourse and surrounding environment.

“Enforcement action will be taken when appropriate.”

This comes just days after The Sun reported on disputes with neighbors at his country retreat.

The argument escalated over plans to invest in a swim spa and hot tub at his rural property.

The Strictly judge aims to elevate his backyard to create a terrace around the at his £1.7 million estate, which features a lake and pond.

However, neighbors have criticized the proposed development, citing “excessive” noise from pool parties at his seven-bedroom home.

Andrea, along with local activists, has argued he is damaging local wildlife in and around the river.Credit: Facebook