A romantic novelist has 'written' herself into the leading role of a planning saga.

Jacquie Walton lives in Cherwell Bank, Lower Heyford, and claims her view of the Cherwell Valley has been spoilt by the new roof line of a detached house in neighbouring Freehold Street.

"The house in question is now taller than any house on the up or downside of it," said Ms Walton, who has published novels under the names of Maxine Barry and Jacqueline Leslie.

She became so annoyed by the new roof line that she sent off a 16-name petition about it to Cherwell District Council complaining that residents were not given details of any planning application.

Dick Makepeace, district councillor for the Heyfords, explained the south area planning committee had twice refused applications by Tim Lynch, but on appeal a Government planning inspector ruled in favour of Mr Lynch.

Mr Lynch said: "I think there is an element of the pot calling the kettle black. It could be said that the former council houses in Cherwell Bank are the real blot on the landscape. "