The housebuilder took the move after intrusive surveys uncovered widespread issues with cavity wall barriers hidden behind brickwork and render.

The full scale of the problem hadn’t been picked up in surface level checks.

Approximately £145 million has been allocated to fix the cavity wall crisis, with the rest going towards further cladding-related works.

The surprise financial provision plunged the firm into a first-half, pre-tax loss of £92 million.

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A 38-year-old plumber is considering leaving the trade after more than £3,000 worth of tools were taken from his van.

Robbie Hawkins had left his Ford Transit parked near his home, when thieves used a master key to unlock the side door and steal his kit in less than a minute.

Hawkins told ITV he had been left with nightmares, PTSD and a “constant feeling of anxiety” when he goes to work.

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Heritage craft trainees have been getting their hands dirty working on a Grade 1 listed church. 

Students from Lancaster and Morecambe College have been learning about hot lime mortar, slate roofing, stonemasonry, plastering, joinery and mud masonry, under the tutelage of master craftspeople.

The summer school run by Historic England is part of a £600,000 project to restore the Church of St John the Evangelist.

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