An Abbey Wood family are "heartbroken" after learning their home of more than 60 years will go back to the council, after their grandmother's death.

Veronica Davie, of Panfield Road, sadly died at the beginning of this year, January 9.

Ms Davies' granddaughter, Alison Basset, of Grovebury road, says the home should be kept within the family.

She told News Shopper: “My nan’s death has left our family heartbroken beyond words.

“The thought of losing a house we all grew up in and share so many beautiful memories in, I can’t bear to think about."

The home has been a central hub to the family for decades, which consists of 21 grandchildren, 66 great-grandchildren and 20 great-great-grandchildren.

Ms Basset could not be classed as a joint tenant on the property, and is currently on band B1 priority for overcrowding and has reportedly been on the housing list for 10 years

“My nan was extremely loved," she continued.

“She spent a lot of years helping young people whilst taking care of her seven children.

“Nan would want us to have her house and her grandchildren to grow up there.

“My 17-year-old daughter and 13-year-old son share a room and I share with my nearly 3-year-old.

“My son has autism and my daughter has psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.

“I have had no luck getting re-housed with the council and have continuously been messed about by them."

But despite acknowledging the unfortunate situation, Greenwich Council said it had to stick to its policies as it would be unfair on others if it made exceptions.

Councillor Chris Kirby said: “We have sympathy with Ms Bassett and are making every effort to accommodate all those affected by a housing crisis brought on by years of government under-investment and restrictions.

“We must adhere to our rules to make sure that our properties are allocated fairly.

“We’re now making great efforts to relieve pressure on housing waiting lists with Greenwich Builds.

Alison has been advised to bid on a larger home in her category and will not be permitted to move into her late grandmothers house.