A WINCHESTER woman and her parrot were saved from a night sleeping outside on sofa by the kindness of friends.

Vicky Osborne, 43, was evicted from a flat in Lent Hill Court, Stanmore, by the city council on Thursday.

She and her children, and Ernie the 26-year-old parrot, are understood to have stayed in Weeke although she was unavailable for comment yesterday. (FRI)

In a statement the city council said: “We are keen to work and engage with all residents using our services, and it is rare that the council resorts to evicting residents in accommodation.

"However following a number of incidents of anti-social behaviour including serious criminal damage in addition to significant rent arrears we had no option but to take formal action.

"The temporary accommodation team have regularly updated Children’s Services at Hampshire County Council of the action being taken so support could be offered to ensure the children’s welfare needs were met when the eviction took place.”

Ms Osborne admitted criminal damage at the flat but said it was to stop a man entering the premises.