AN IRAQ war hero has been left without a home after returning from battle.

Former soldier Andrew Hanson, 25, watched as three of his friends died in a so-called "friendly fire" incident just after war broke out in 2003.

But now, after seven years serving his country, Andrew - who was a private in the Household Cavalry's reconnaissance section - has hit out at Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing for not finding him and his family a council home.

Andrew, partner Andrea, 23, and their son Jordan, seven, have had to live separately. There is not enough room for the family to all live under one roof with Andrew's parents.

Andrew is sleeping on a friend's sofa while Andrea and Jordan are cramped in a room at Andrew's parents' home on New Hey Road at Outlane.

Andrew said: "I left the Army in the summer and have been asking for a flat from the council ever since.

"I thought that with a partner and child I would be able to find somewhere quite quickly while I got myself in work and back on my feet.

"But it has taken them ages. I feel like I gave up such a long time for my country and I am getting nothing back."

Last week, KNH offered a flat above a betting shop in Sycamore Avenue, Golcar. Andrew and mum Christine, 51, went to look at it.

Christine said: "I was shocked and absolutely disgusted by the state of the flat.

"The first thing we saw was the graffiti in the entrance. When we got in the flat it was even worse.

"There was a used hypodermic needle on the floor and lots of other signs of drug abuse.

"There was human waste and blood splattered up the walls and the window had been smashed. Nobody could have lived there - especially not a couple with a young son.

"In the back yard there were gangs of kids rolling up what appeared to be joints. The place was a disaster and, quite rightly, they turned the council's offer down.

"It isn't right that we can't house soldiers who risked their lives.

"My son saw some dreadful things in Iraq. He should not have to go through this now he is back home."

A KNH spokeswoman said: "We do not have many two-bedroom properties available. Mr Hanson has 700 points on our waiting list scheme, but for most of our houses you need 850.

"But he and his family are a priority case and we are doing everything we can to try and find them suitable accommodation."