BARNSLEY Council were called out to almost 3,000 rodent infestations last year – the equivalent of more than eight every day.

A Freedom of Information request shows the council tackled 2,952 rodent infestations in 2022 – down from 3,261 the year before.

It was also down from 3,258 infestations recorded in 2020.

Ian Andrew, chief executive at the British Pest Control Association, said rodents are a ‘serious public health pest’ with rapid breeding cycles, which means infestations can escalate quickly.

He added: “Unfortunately, being unable to afford pest control increases the likelihood of people either ignoring infestations or attempting DIY pest control methods, which can make the issue worse and endanger other people or non-target species.”