EQUIPMENT seized during investigations into noise complaints was crushed as a part of National Noise Action Day on Wednesday.

In the year from April 2002 West Wiltshire District Council environmental health officers investigated 400 noise complaints, almost half of which related to music being played too loudly.

Principal environmental health officer Kate Bishop said: "We want people to consider the noise that they make and the effect it can have on others.

"Over the last few years we have seized many hi-fis, speakers and musical instruments from persistently noisy neighbours."

The council donated some of the equipment to schools, but other items were crushed.

The council also deals with barking dogs, DIY, car and burglar alarms and construction noise.

Before equipment is confiscated the council will take several steps from issuing an informal warning to a legal notice if noise continues.

For advice on how to deal with excessive noise contact the environmental protection team on (01225) 770358.