Bizarre row erupts over noisy BUNTING so loud it's…

Bizarre row erupts over noisy BUNTING so loud it's 'ear bleeding' in Greater Manchester high street

A bit of bunting is usually considered a festive and fun way to spruce up a street. But the flags set up on Leigh high street have caused a dispute among residents after some complained.

“The noise from these flags is absolutely awful! Lord help the businesses, they must be powfagged with it! Arggggghhh!,” a post in a popular Leigh Facebook group read - prompting a debate which has raged on over the course of more than 120 comments.

The noise has been described as sounding like rain is pelting down on the road, and comes from the plastic bunting flapping in the wind. The flags of European countries are decorating the street in celebration of the Women’s Euros, which kick off in Manchester later this week.

Many Leythers have poked light fun at the post, with one saying someone needs to “put in a complaint with the wind”. And others have commented that there are more important things to worry about than “a bit of wind on some flags”.

But others have raised more serious problems, including how difficult the noise is for people with sensory issues. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News , one business owner said she knew the complaint sounded silly, but the flags posed a real issue for some.

“I know there's more important things to worry about, but the noise is ear bleeding! They're so loud! I feel so sorry for anyone who is neurodivergent, a lot of people with autism spectrum can't cope with noise like that, it can send them into meltdown,” she said.

“I know I sound like a "Karen", but it's just my opinion!” Leigh Sports Village will host four games at the Women's UEFA EURO 2022, with Manchester, Trafford and Leigh playing host to eight matches throughout July.

Others said they aren’t complaining, but that the sound is definitely noticeable - with many saying they thought they were the only ones bothered by it until they saw the Facebook post. Customers at an outdoor café next to Leigh bus station, where flags have also been erected, told the M.E.N the noise was "a bit annoying" when they were trying to eat their food.

"I think they are only annoying when you are sat down and having a meal," customer Lynn said. "It was making a big clatter! But I wouldn't have complained."

Another customer said the noise hadn't worried her, but she had heard some who work in the shops on the high street speaking about them. "It's alright for me because I can walk away," she told the M.E.N.

But one local business owner, who didn't want to be named, said the noise outside her shop didn't bother her. "I'm excited the Women's Euros are coming to Leigh," she said. "It's a good thing."

Wigan Council has been contacted for comment.

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