A group of Collier Row council tenants are foxed by a letter accusing them of inviting wild animals into their building.

The bizarre correspondence from Havering Council also appears to request that they keep cats on leads.

Christine O’Callaghan said she and her fellow Norfolk House residents in White Hart Lane had received a letter accusing them of letting foxes “roam” and foul indoors.

“It has come to my attention that you have allowed foxes and your dog to roam within the communal areas of the block,” the letter reads.

“I strongly advise that the above antisocial activities cease.

“Allowing foxes to enter into the block is totally unacceptable and may pose a health and safety risk to other residents or members of the public.”

It adds: “I have also received complaints regarding cats and foxes fouling in the communal lobby and hallway. The fouling of the common parts is totally unacceptable.

“I would therefore request that your pet is kept on a lead at all times.”

Ms O’Callaghan said it was “ridiculous to say the least”.

“Within the last 17 years, none of us have had the excitement of seeing a fox or foxes roaming the block,” she said.

“I am the only tenant with a cat, and he comes and goes as he pleases, as do most cats.

“A kitten trained to walk on a lead is one thing, but I’d like to see every cat-owner in Collier Row start to put their cat on a lead and take it for ‘walkies’.”

The letter was hand-delivered by a council officer last week.

Housing boss Cllr Lesley Kelly said: “The letter we sent to residents should have been a bit clearer and the majority of our residents do respect their property and their neighbours.

“We want our buildings to be a safe and pleasant place for everyone to live, which is why we sent the letter reminding people of their responsibilities.”