Happy ending for Upper Beeding "van lady"

Mrs Heath, who is believed to be in her early 80s, had lived in an ancient Commer motor home parked in Smugglers Lane, Upper Beeding, for more than 30 years.

She has recently become unwell, and community-minded neighbours worked with environmental health officers, social services and the ambulance service, to help her move.

PC Mike Dowling, of Steyning police, said there was nothing untoward about Mrs Heath's choice of home.

He said: "I was introduced to her when I came down as the local officer, in 1996. She is just a nice old lady '“ she has still got all her marbles.

"She has been well-known around here for donkey's years. Everyone around Upper Beeding and Bramber knows about the motor home in Smugglers Lane."

Mrs Health and her husband originally bought the home with a view to go travelling, before tragedy struck

They got as far as Smugglers Lane, and Mr Heath.

As Mrs Heath couldn't bear to leave she stayed in the van, with no running water or electricity, but as she got older, neighbours rallied round to help.

She is now happy in her new home.