An unusual and unexpected row has broken out in a town - over some bunting. It was put up along a high street in celebration of the Women's Euros football tournament kicking off this week.
But for some people in Leigh, Greater Manchester, it is nothing other than a real nuisance - because it is noisy. Some have described it as sounding like rain pelting down on the ground when the flags flap in the wind.
And on one Facebook group dedicated to the area it has prompted a big debate, reports the M.E.N. One person said: “The noise from these flags is absolutely awful! Lord help the businesses."
Many poked fun at the situation, 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 some people have raised more serious problems, including how difficult the noise is for those with sensory issues. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News , one business owner said she knew the complaint sounded silly, but the flags could pose a real issue.
“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 by the M.E.N.
