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Darren Stokes signed for a two bed property with Sheffield City Council last week, but says he was not given the opportunity to view it beforehand as he and his family were classed as homeless.

So the 34-year-old was horrified to walk into the home, at Guildford Rise, Norfolk Park, to find ripped up carpets, mould, thick dust and the stink of dog and cat urine- along with no gas for heating or hot water.

"We collected the keys, went to the property and it was a mess,” said Darren, who suffers from mental health issues.

(Left) Darren Stokes with partner Charlie and 15-month-old daughter Eira (Right) The Council house was 'thick with dust and mould' with no gas or electric.

"My partner is 30 weeks pregnant and I have a 15-month-old daughter who has skin allergies currently being treated by the hospital.

"It’s a total disgrace being placed in a home like this.”

Darren says he asked the Council to move his family into alternative accommodation, but claims he was told he must either stay in the property or sleep on the streets.

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The carpets were ripped up and the house 'stank of cat and dog urine'.

The family-of-three slept in their car for a night with the engine running to keep warm as temperatures dropped.

They were then offered a room in a hostel for a night but were told it would cost £200 to stay there for the rest of the week, which they couldn’t afford.

The property was finally connected to gas and electric the following Friday, but Darren says the Council are still refusing to rehome the family until the property is inspected later this week.

“I’m devastated about this entire situation,” Darren added. “I think it’s wrong that this happens to people.

Darren said he had been left 'devastated' by the situation.

"If it’s happening to someone like me I’d hate to think who else it’s happening to, and those that don’t or can’t speak out.”

The Star has contacted Sheffield City Council for comment.

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Sheffield couple slept in car with their baby after living in ‘the council house from hell’