A LOUD and clear message against neighbourhood noise will be given by environmental health bosses in Burnley next week.

They are supporting Noise Action Day on Wednesday, a national event aimed at making people more conscious of noise nuisance.

Council officers are putting up posters and handing out leaflets and bookmarks to local residents and organisations in the borough.

The main focus of the campaign is neighbour noise, with campaigners drawing attention to key areas of nuisance such as noise from alarms, barking dogs and amplified music.

Environmental Health Officer Andrew Mason said: "Neighbour noise is a growing problem and one that people are becoming increasingly aware of.

"It is not only annoying to people, but it can also affect health by causing stress and anxiety.

"Every year our department investigates hundreds of noise complaints.

"While the council can take enforcement action such as prosecution or seizure of noisy equipment, we would always encourage people to behave responsibly and not cause complaints in the first place."

He added: "Noise Action Day is an excellent initiative and one the council is pleased to support."