SQUATTERS who have occupied a luxury £1.1million retreat say they expect to be evicted in next few days , and will now go hunting for a new home.

John Howard

SQUATTERS who have occupied a luxury £1.1million retreat say they expect to be evicted in next few days , and will now go hunting for a new home.

The youngsters moved into 1860s Victorian mansion Broad Oak, in Great Finborough, near Stowmarket, two-and-a-half weeks ago.

Now, as it emerges they preparing to move on, there are reports some worried people with empty houses in the area have been removing “for sale” signs and parking cars outside to make their properties appear occupied.

Callum Sanson , among the group of between six to ten youngsters, said they are waiting to be told when to leave, which could be anytime before Monday.

He said yesterday: “I reckon we only have a day now, until Thursday. We will have to go and look for temporary accommodation. We are going to have to squat somewhere else.”

Last night, one woman with links to the property said she was “saddened” by what had happened.

The woman, who asked not to be identified, said: “My father purchased it during the thirties.

“Broad Oak house and garden had always been a very loved home and very well maintained. My mother continued to live there until her death during 1993. It had been our family home for nearly 60 years.

“The whole family including several grandchildren have wonderful memories of times enjoyed in both the house and games played in the lovely garden.

“With Broad Oak being up for sale, the house would have been secured therefore in my view the squatters have absolutely no rights to be there at all.

“I look forward to hearing of a happier end to this matter in the immediate future as I am sure do the inhabitants of the village of Great Finborough.”

Lisa Crane, spokeswoman for Suffolk Constabulary, said: “As far as we are aware the eviction has not yet taken place and we will attend if we need to.”

Until 1936 the property formed part of the Finborough Hall Estate and the magnificent residence boasts four floors with five reception rooms, a large family kitchen, service accommodation, seven bedrooms and a cellar, period rooms with high ceilings and large windows, a 20 foot sun room and en-suite facilities. There is even a separate staff cottage, offering two bedroom accommodation.