Ryton residents say smelly landfill site is making them sick

Families living near Path Head Landfill site in Ryton on Tyneside say the smell it's emitting is making them physically ill.

They're demanding action from waste management firm Suez.

The company says heavy rain is to blame for the issue and they are taking steps to reduce the stench. The site is due to close in March next year, something campaigners say can't come soon enough.

Resident Liz Clayton says the pong is so strong it's like leaving unemptied bins in the living room.

She blames the nearby Path Head landfill site where recent intense rainfall permeated waste on site, generating unpleasant gases that could be smelt miles away.

Liz no longer opens windows, laundry can't be dried on the washing line and her three children refuse to play outside, so the garden's just for the pets. She also fears becoming isolated.

With more than a year to go before the site in Ryton is due to close, a local campaign group's seeking reassurance from the managers Suez that the stench can be quelled.

Suez has thanked residents for their patience while they work on an action plan, using a vast network of pipes and wells to remover the smelly landfill gases and use them to generate electricity.

The Environment Agency says Suez are complying with all the regulations.

Suez has invited Ryton resident to see the work being done for themselves.

Watch: Helen Pearson's full report