HEREFORDSHIRE Council has hit back at claims that it is failing an ex-SAS serviceman saying that it ‘prioritises housing’ for former regiment members.

Bob Curry, 63, who is currently living in a B&B paid for by charity, pleaded for a permanent council home in a front page story by The Sun and via an appearance on ITV’s Good Morning Britain.

Former Special Air Service sergeant Andy McNab started a petition that calls on Herefordshire Council to find suitable, permanent accommodation for Mr Curry.

The petition has gained international support and has been signed by more than 350,000 people.

Mr Curry says he has been on the council’s housing list since last November following the breakdown of a relationship.

Meanwhile, he’s living in a B&B paid for by the Royal British Legion. Mr Curry told The Sun that the only accommodation he has so far been offered is a hostel room in Whitecross.

Herefordshire Council said that initially Mr Curry had not provided all the documentation needed to legally register for housing.

But, despite this, the council stated the former soldier was offered two forms of accommodation, in areas which were agreeable to Mr Curry, but both were turned down.

They say that since his newspaper appeal and Mr Curry meeting with the council last week, he has now been placed on the social housing waiting list and has placed a bid on a property.

“Our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant means we prioritise housing for former members of the services and they’re given an advantage on the waiting list,” said a council spokesman.

“We currently have 1,328 people and their families looking for social housing in Herefordshire and 13 of these have a forces background. 

“Everyone registered for social housing is advised that the more flexible they can be with their choice of location, the quicker they are likely to receive appropriate housing. 

“For example, there are 24 one-bed properties available across the entire county and only three of these are in Hereford city.

“Herefordshire Council does not own any housing stock, it is held by a number of different housing associations across the county. 

"The council operates the social housing register and supports local people to apply and bid for available homes from housing associations.  

“Once a bid has been placed, the applicant liaises directly with the housing association and not the council. 

“However, the council does continue to provide support if people need to claim housing benefit.  

“We know that it’s often hard for people to ask for support, especially in difficult personal circumstances, and our staff are sympathetic and supportive, whilst being fair to everyone who needs help. 

“The council continues to provide support for veterans across the county and is currently working in partnership with the Community Self Build Agency to build new homes for ex-service personnel in Leominster.”