Coombe End Farmhouse on the banks of the Thames near Goring-on-Thames in Oxfordshire featured a boathouse thought to have been the model for the home of Ratty, one of the heroes of Grahame's classic tale.

The property was bequeathed to the National Trust in the 1930's, but recent years have seen it neglected.

After the previous tenants moved out in 2006, the house remained empty until April 2007 when the squatters took up residence.

"We took direct action in protest at the National Trust's neglect," said Hannah Beasley, squatter and qualfied care worker.

"We wanted to highlight the fact that old historic buildings are being left to rot while a lot of young people are struggling to afford a place to live in."

The National Trust states that they are seeking to 'secure a long-term future' for the house and are drawing up conservation plans -- but the squatters claim action is needed now.

"There are numerous options, but they are choosing to just board it up and let it fall into greater disrepair," said Beasley.

"It leaves you wondering whether they are waiting for this wonderful building to be condemned."

After a series of court hearings, the National Trust have been granted a possession order -- meaning that the squatters could be evicted within days.

But the National Trust have gained little sympathy amongst some locals for their treatment of the house.

"It's disgusting the way they have left such a beautiful house go to ruin," said Richard Hazell, whose farm is near the property.

The National Trust were anxious to point out that they have no plans to allow the house to collapse or sell it off.

"We would never contemplate anything but a restoration of this farmhouse which is on land which the National Trust can never sell," said a spokesperson.

"The squatters have delayed our efforts to examine all of the options to secure the future of this listed building."