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OUR horrible neighbours are making our life hell.
Nothing we do is right. From slamming our car doors too hard, to daring to have a barbecue, they complain about every little thing.
The other day I had a stand-up row with him about an overhanging branch of all things.
Talk about petty. His temper is ferocious and within three seconds of approaching me he was swearing like a maniac.
Then the pinch-faced wife came out and started joining in. She was angry with my partner for allowing our nieces to play “too loudly” in our garden.
Rubbish
She actually suggested we dismantle our new slide and swing structure because it’s anti-social.
My partner laughed and told them to go boil their heads.
I’m so stressed. Every time I open my front door I have to steel myself because I’m terrified of what I might find.
In the past few weeks I’ve found rubbish, dog mess and broken glass on our drive. I can’t prove that he dumped any of it there, but I’ve got my suspicions.
My partner is more combative than I am and enjoys taking them on, but I’m someone who craves the quiet life.
Unfortunately, our spats with Victor Meldrew and Cruella de Vil are causing problems within our own home.
We’re not making love because I’m so tense and wound up. The thought of getting naked and letting rip when they are just the other side of the wall is the biggest turn-off ever.
My partner accuses me of being a wimp and says I should ignore them and rise above their provocation, but I can’t. We’ve only been here six months and I realise we’ve made a big mistake. JANE SAYS: Ongoing feuds are exhausting. They upset and demoralise us.
Sadly, you’ve moved into a property next to a very touchy pair. I get the impression that nothing you do is right because they will always try to find fault. Surely all four of you need to sit down together to clear the air before things get any worse?
Go round to see your neighbours and suggest a meeting on neutral ground. If they agree, then be prepared to listen as they lay out their charges against you.
If you have been guilty of being excessively noisy or inconsiderate, then take that on the chin and promise to be more thoughtful.
Equally, you have to make it clear you’re not prepared to live your lives walking on eggshells.
Don’t make accusations you can’t prove regarding the rubbish on your drive, but keep a diary of everything and take photos too.
Do you need to re-arrange your bedroom to put sex back on the menu again? Also, do you need to think about moving on again?
You have to reassure your partner that this business is not going to break you up. Stand firm as a committed couple.
Remember that you may have to speak to the council – or even the police – if these people continue to harass or bully you.
Take care of your mental health too by consulting your GP if you’re struggling to cope.