A RIDING school owner facing eviction from his Portchester home on New Year's Eve has now lost his bid to live on the site of his business because of planning rules.

Ronald Armstrong, 64, has run the popular Roshauna Equitation riding school for 30 years. During that time he has lived practically next to the site, meaning he is able to look after his 13 horses around the clock.

But following the death of his mother-in-law earlier this year, Mr Armstrong has been told he has to leave the family home at the end of December because the tenancy was in her name.

Despite paying out £2,740 in legal bills, Mr Armstrong failed to get the name on the tenancy changed, prompting him to apply for planning permission to live at the riding school.

But Fareham planners ruled the application would breach their policy on developing in the countryside. After the meeting, Mr Armstrong, of Down End Road, Portchester, said he felt let down.

"My wife died and then my mother-in-law died and I was hoping the tenancy could be transferred to our daughter's name, but even going through the solicitors didn't work so we have to go on December 31.

"We thought living at the school might work but we tried and we lost. I have had so much bad luck this year and have spent thousands already just trying to stay in my home.

"All it was for was a log cabin that would have been totally in keeping with the stables that are already there. It is very modest and I don't believe it would have set a precedent."

Mr Armstrong, whose wife died of cancer in 1986, now faces a round trip to the riding school from Whiteley, the nearest place he could find suitable rented accommodation.

"It is essential we are close to the school for welfare and security reasons. Often the horses are on medication that needs to be administered during the night," he said.