A pair of peahens are terrorising a village prompting one plucky octogenarian to take action.

The duo have been prowling the streets of sleepy Hollingbourne causing trouble since Easter, but last weeks things took a turn for the worse when they entered one severely disabled resident’s home.

Jean Talboys, 85, said: “We’ve had problems with them for several months but in the past week they have really overstepped the mark because they got into the house of a severely disabled gentleman through his open French windows."

In the past residents have repeatedly had to call nearby Leeds Castle and the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel in an effort to track down the owners, but so far no one has come forward.

The birds have been causing a particular nuisance in villagers’ gardens, where they have torn through plants, burrowed deep holes and laid eggs.

After the latest episode Mrs Talboys said: “I phoned Leeds Castle once again. Fortunately this time a charming man got back to me and said if I call him next time there is a problem he will come out within 10 minutes and take them away.”

Mrs Talboys has offered to be a contact point for villagers who have been invaded by the fowl.

She said despite her advancing years and severe arthritis she is always happy to help Hollingbourne and has been doing so for more than 40 years.

She added: “They’ve often entered my garden and settled down as if they owned the place. I suggest when they are caught they have their wings clipped because they really shouldn’t be doing this.”

The pair remain at large and if spotted residents are asked to entice them into a shed, garage or conservatory with some bird food and when they are safely captured contact Mrs Talboys on 01622880349.

Readers may remember the tale of Percy the peacock who went on the run from Allington Marina last July.

He was eventually arrested by police after causing mayhem in Ringlestone.