A model car shop could be put out of business because Preston City Council have brought a noise abatement order against it, the owner claims.

Damian Markland, 27, owner of Speedy Models, Garstang Road, Broughton, had to spend £5,000 fighting a noise nuisance court case.

The case was brought against him by the authority following complaints from neighbours about the noise being generated by the engines of his motorised models.

The noise abatement order was served in May 2004 and Mr Markland's company was accused of breaching the order a month later. The company was convicted on July 6, this year.

Mr Markland says he will now have to spend £10,000 to appeal the conviction at Crown Court.

He claims the model cars are no louder than a lawn mower and if he is not allowed to demonstrate them he will be put out of business.

He said: "I started this business when I was 19 and I have been here for eight years.

"Customers buy cars from us and take them home. If they have problems starting them, we show them how to start them here, but it only takes about 10 minutes. I've just spent £15,000 expanding the business." Councillor John Swindells, executive member for environment and sustainability, said: "Businesses have a responsibility to respect the communities around them.

"Prosecution was a last resort."