Residents of Normanby, in Redcar and Cleveland, North Yorkshire, were left stunned after a massive 22-inch rat, nearly the size of a small cat, was found inside a home. The rat was discovered during a routine pest control visit and was later photographed by local councillors David Taylor and Stephen Martin, who shared the image online. The post quickly went viral, igniting concerns over a rising rodent problem in the area.
Locals have since reported an increased number of rat sightings in alleyways, near overflowing bins, in overgrown public plots, and even crossing streets in broad daylight. Some described seeing rats the size of Jack Russell terriers, while others recalled decomposing rodents left on roadsides. Many expressed fears of an impending public health issue.
Councillors blamed the surge on poor waste management, neglected public land, and the withdrawal of council-provided pest control services. Residents are now expected to hire private exterminators, which many find unaffordable, leaving infestations unaddressed.
Previously, Redcar and Cleveland had overcome similar rodent issues through coordinated interventions. However, the current crisis is seen as more severe due to policy changes and shrinking municipal services.
Local leaders are now urging immediate action — including clearing overgrown areas, improving waste disposal, and reinstating subsidised pest control. They warn that without swift measures, rat populations may spiral out of control, jeopardising community health and safety.
The discovery of the oversized rat has become a stark wake-up call about neglected urban sanitation and the consequences of underfunded public services.