LIVING in a house full of bad memories of a fire is affecting the health of an entire family, says a Calne mum.

Michelle and Robert Kelty, of The Were, who have five children, three of which are disabled, say they feel trapped in their own home as housing association GreenSquare has refused to let them move following the fire which ravaged their home five years ago.

"The fire started at about ten to three in the morning," the 37-year-old said.

"My son, who is now nine, is quite autistic but I knew there was something wrong because his cries were different. The fire was three inches from his duvet and if I am honest Josh is very lucky to be alive."

The fire, which destroyed the first floor of the house and damaged the ground floor, has left permanent scars in the family, which Mrs Kelty believes will not improve unless they are able to move.

The couple and their children Kieran, Tianna, Joshua, Ella and Kyle spent time in a bed and breakfast until GreenSquare moved them into a temporary property in North Street which suited their needs.

"The property had a downstairs wetroom and bedroom, which was perfect for Kieran, who has cerebral palsy, so we asked if we could stay there," said Mrs Kelty.

"We were happy there but they said no and it became a real struggle."

Since moving back to The Were, Mr Kelty feels unable to go or sleep upstairs and Kieran is spending most of his time at his grandparent's house, even though occupational therapists suggested that the Keltys add new adaptations to their Calne home, which Mrs Kelty fears has locked them into a new five-year contract.

"I have had enough," said Mrs Kelty.

"They made us stay here and they are making it harder. My family is in a crisis and Kieran is at breaking point."

Jenny Spoor, head of neighbourhoods at GreenSquare, said: "This property was damaged by fire five years ago and subsequently fully refurbished, with specific property adaptations to meet the needs of a member of the household who has a disability. It is one of only a handful of five-bedroom properties that GreenSquare owns.

"GreenSquare is one of several independent landlords with properties for affordable and social rent in Wiltshire, but does not decide on the suitability of a particular property for individuals.

"The local authority, in this case Wiltshire Council, has the statutory responsibility to manage a waiting list for the area."

A Wiltshire Council spokesman said: "We sympathise with the situation, and we always work with families to ensure they are getting the most appropriate care and support for their assessed needs."