FARMER Arnold Davenport was today granted a stay of execution and will be allowed to stay in his farmhouse home for at least five more weeks.

Bachelor Mr Davenport, aged 58, appeared before Bolton County Court this morning after defying an eviction order requiring him to leave Nab Gate Farm, Harwood.

He could have been jailed, but Judge Derwin Hope told the court: "No-one wants to send Mr Davenport to prison if that can be avoided."

Mr Davenport, who defied eviction on July 17 by staging a rooftop protest, has now been given until September 5 to find legal representation.

Harwood residents spoke at the hearing on Mr Davenport's behalf.

Ian Broadley claimed legal irregularities had meant a solicitor could not be found in time for Mr Davenport's court appearance today.

Mr Broadley told the judge: "He has a number of friends and we are trying to raise the sum to buy the farm for him."

Plaintiff, landowner Mr Christopher Holt, of Old Nans Lane, Harwood, was represented in court by barrister Mr Stephen Pritchett.

Mr Pritchett said that he was "almost driven to accept" that Mr Davenport needed more time, but pressed for the eviction order to stand.

Judge Hope told the packed court: "I am prepared to adjourn until September 5. I want to give plenty of time to Mr Davenport who should come back showing that efforts had been made to get himself sorted out."

"This needs to be put on hold until September 5 and all parties should attempt to reach an amicable solution."

More than 30 people celebrated outside as they waved "Save Arnold" banners outside the court building.

Afterwards, Mr Davenport said: "You could say I was relieved, but really all I want is to go home and see to my animals."

Mr Broadley said: "This is just the start of a lot of hard work. But I feel that justice has been done today."

Mr Holt refused to comment.