A PENSIONER says a noisy device to scare birds away from crops is ruining his retirement.

Francis Gray, 73, who lives in Park Square West in Jaywick, is upset with near by farmers who use agricultural gas guns to protect their fields.

He says that three loud bangs are sounded every 30 minutes, starting from 6am until dark.

The problem arose several months ago.

Mr Gray has complained to Tendring Council which has promised to locate the owner of the bird scarers.

Tendring Council's communications manager, Nigel Brown, confirmed three complaints had been made on this issue.

He said: "We have tried to make contact with the landowner.

"Unfortunately they were not in but a message has been left and we will be making arrangements to visit the site and discuss the issue with them."

For the full story see tomorrow's Gazette.