A COURT hearing to decide the fate of Harwood farmer Arnold Davenport, who is facing eviction, was due to start today.

The case is due to be heard over two days at Bolton County Court.

Mr Davenport, of Nab Gate Farm, Stitch-mi-Lane, Harwood, and landowner, Mr Christopher Holt, of Old Nans Lane, Harwood, have both agreed for the matter to be dealt with as a two day trial.

Farmer Mr Davenport, aged 58, is subject to an eviction order by landowner Mr Holt.

Residents who support Mr Davenport's battle to stay in his farm house formed the Harwood Action Group and have raised money to form a fighting fund to help cover his legal costs.

The farm has been his home for more than 43 years. He staged a roof top protest earlier this year and defied bailiffs who came to evict him. Mr Holt wants to sell the property to developers.