A HOMELESS man lost all his worldly possessions after the contents of the signal box where he had made a home were set on fire.

Simon Coomer, 37, was evicted from the signal box at Troy Station in Monmouth two weeks ago.

Mr Coomer lived in the abandoned signal box for two-and-a-half years, transforming it from a derelict shack into a cosy home.

He installed new windows with shutters, a shower, bed and water butt, put felt on the roof, cleared up the rubbish outside and planted flowers.

However, over the weekend someone ripped off the windows, roof and guttering and emptied the entire contents of the house.

All Mr Coomer's belongings were put into a pile and set on fire.

Mr Coomer said he has lost everything.

He said: "My bike, fishing tackle, clothes, identification and photographs have all gone."

Monmouth town councillor John Fletcher, who has been helping Mr Coomer find new accommodation, spoke of his disgust.

He said: "It is very sad to think someone has done this and whoever did do this should be held responsible. Simon should be compensated in some way and given new clothes and possessions."

Monmouthshire county council called for the signal box to be vacated after it was deemed unfit for human habitation.

Newport county court served an eviction notice on Mr Coomer in September and bailiffs acting on behalf of owner Robert Davies formally evicted him from the property.