A Battersea removals company has been accused of causing £8,500 damage to precious ornaments, chandeliers and other family heirlooms.

Bishop’s Move allegedly chipped and smashed 125 items when helping pensioners Siham and Salah Abboud move to their north London home in May.

The couple’s daughter, Rafeef, 30, said: “It’s been so distressing. They haven’t got the best health in the world. It’s been disgusting.

“Not only has it been negligence of the highest order, but the way they have treated my parents shows a complete lack of respect.”

A spokesman for Bishop’s Move said: “We are in discussions with Mr and Mrs Abboud and are working to resolve the issues they have raised.

“Bishop's Move carries out thousands of moves every year and customer satisfaction is of paramount importance to us.”

A spokesman for the branch in Stewarts Road said this week they were working to resolve the issues, but would not give any promise of compensation.

Among the items the couple claim were damaged were Bohemia crystal bowls from Prague, a piano, valuable paintings and porcelain ornaments from their honeymoon.

The family also say £1,500 in storage charges were placed on their credit card - even though this was not part of the agreed deal.

Despite the complaints, they say the company has denied responsibility and offered them only £500.

Mrs Abboud, 61, has a heart condition and high blood pressure, but together with her 78-year-old husband she is determined to fight the company for a full refund and compensation.

Their daughter added: “I think it’s our duty to let people know what they’re getting themselves into. It’s such a huge thing.”

They have already complained to the British Association of Removers, who refused to comment on an “on-going attempt to conciliate”.