Irene Gardiner lives in a 500-year-old timber framed and stone cottage near Llanidloes, Powys. She has occupied the house for 11 years, raising her family.  The cottage, which has no electricity or running water, has been occupied by squatters for several decades and Irene moved in 2001. Two of her children; Hazel, 15, and Sol, 14, live with her and attend local schools.

Irene has paid council tax since taking possession of the property from a previous squatter and no one had title to it and in 2011 tried and failed to claim lawful possession of the property but her application sadly failed. 

Irene is self employed and works as a puppeteer, jeweller and an Artist.  She is a popular member of the local community and her living in the house has not caused offence to the majority of local people.

Backed by lawyers in London, Irene is bringing a test case against the police and CPS seeking assurances she will not be thrown out of her family home.

The purpose of this petition is to widen awareness of Irene’s case and to promote support for her and to prevent her being arrested.

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