I LIVE in Sandpiper Road, Lordswood, and had rat problems last year and they seem to be back this year.

When I phoned the pest control people, I was told it would cost about £30 for a visit. Alternatively I could buy poison pellets from B&Q and do it myself, which I did.

Every day they were back waiting for lunch. The only thing we got them with in the end was an old-fashioned rat trap.

I killed six within a week and a near neighbour caught about the same amount.

Secure the bait to trap well before setting it because they soon learn to take the bait without setting off the trap.

J W MINTRAM, Lordswood, Southampton.