CLOUDS of buzzing flies are smothering villages across a wide area with no relief in sight, residents say.

People living within a five-mile radius of Heckington, near Sleaford, have complained that they are fed up of the tiny insects making their lives a misery.

Local resident Richard Higgs with his trusty fly swatter.

It has been a week since the problem was highlighted in the Lincolnshire Echo, but villagers say they have still had no respite.

North Kesteven District Council says it has identified a potential source for the flies and officers were working with the proprietor on fly control measures which would be monitored over the coming weeks.

Liz Lowes, 46, landlady at The Oak pub, in Boston Road, Heckington, said there appeared to be no end to the problem.

"The problem hasn't gone away and now it's getting out of hand," she said.

"The wet weather hasn't made any difference whatsoever. As soon as it stops raining, it's warm again and the flies come again.

"All we can do is just wait and hope."

Lisa Keywood, 30, who runs the Garwick Cafe, in Heckington, also said the fly infestation was still an issue.

"I think there's very slightly less flies but only marginally," she said.

"It's an epidemic. I don't know what's caused this or where it's coming from but whatever the reason, it needs to stop."

Postmaster at Helpringham Steve Bamford, 49, said the fly problem is twice as bad this year as in previous years.

"It's the worst year we have had," he said.

"There's not been any particular improvement in the past week.

"As soon as it warms up they all come out again."

North Kesteven District Council says it is still working to resolve the problem.

Principle Environmental Health officer, Janet Williams said: "We have had an officer out on site this morning to assess the situation, and there has been a definite improvement.

"It will take some time for the flies to disband from the local area, but we are currently contacting residents to reassure them and give advice on the best measures of control.

"We thank all the residents for their patience and cooperation with this matter."