Officials have ruled Eric Goodman and Penelope Blake, both in their 80s, cannot return to the wooden lodge they built for themselves in Itteringham.

The pair were banned from staying there by North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) after an unfortunate downsizing faux-pas left them in breach of its rules.

They have since waged a long campaign to overturn the council's ruling, but their numerous attempts have so far failed.

The Muster in Itteringham, a property built as an annexe that has become the focus of a decade-long planning dispute (Image: North Norfolk District Council)

And this month another bitter blow has been dealt to the couple, after the Planning Inspectorate - the government department that presides over planning disputes - dismissed their latest appeal.

The pair say it has left them bankrupt and living in rented accommodation.

The claim they have been unfairly treated and are furious with the result.

READ MORE: Couple's downsizing saga costs them £100,000

Robin Farm in Itteringham, which was separated from the Muster and sold by Eric Goodman and Penelope Blake (Image: NNDC)

WHAT WENT WRONG?

Mr Goodman, a former antiques dealer and property developer, and Ms Blake, an artist specialising in willow weaving, had lived happily at Robin Farm for more than 40 years, where they kept a muster of peacocks and enjoyed spending time in the garden.

In 2008, they built the Muster, which was........

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