AN Orford family who feared eviction from their home have been told they can remain in the property.

The children of 42-year-old Cheryl Dixie, who died in her sleep on March 27, faced losing their home on Ullswater Avenue after their dad, and Cheryl's ex-partner Paul Lewis, struggled to take over the tenancy.

In a dispute with Golden Gates Housing Trust, part of the Torus Group, the family were told they had 28 days to vacate the property.

A petition, set up by Paul's niece, was launched to help the family keep their home.

In three days it gained more than 4,000 signatures of support and after liaising with Golden Gates the home will now be signed over to Mr Lewis on Monday.

A spokesman from Torus said: "We've spent the past few days working behind the scenes to enable Mr Lewis and his children to remain in the family home.

"Following a meeting with Mr Lewis, we can now share the news that he will be signing for the property on Monday. We hope that this provides some comfort for Mr Lewis and his family at this very sad time."

Cheryl and 40-year-old Paul were together for more than nine years but had separated in the past 18 months leaving Cheryl the named tenant on the family home.

Paul, who previously fitted furniture in student accommodation, left his job after Cheryl's sudden death last month and has now moved in with his children.