An abundance of noise complaints has forced a Sidmouth pub to ban all future, outside live music events.

Matt and Lyndsay Fudge who are the owners of The Volunteer Inn, in Temple Street, sent out a Facebook post last week, spreading the word about the ban which will come into force after FolkWeek.

The pair said there had been ongoing issues with nearby residents who had been complaining whenever they had live entertainment outside.

So, after FolkWeek 2018 they have decided that there would be ‘absolutely no amplified music, including DJs or background music’ allowed in the pub’s garden.

The statement said: “The continued complaints are proving stressful for Lynds and I. And, seeing as our whole aim, when taking this pub on, was to create a fun community atmosphere where everyone can enjoy their ‘local’, it seems this is causing problems for people locally.

“We understand that pubs aren’t for everyone but didn’t realise quite how offended people would be with us for organising events.

“As a business, and more importantly as a family, we have always tried not to upset anyone where avoidable.

“Although at first glance it might seem a severe measure to take, we think in the long-term, it will benefit us by hopefully showing locals that we are aware of their concerns and will act on them.

“We plan to be at The Volley for a lot of years to come so we don’t want to upset anyone unduly.”

After the couple’s statement was published, many showed their support for the pair’s decision, although they said it was a shame.

People also applauded the couple for their professionalism in handling the issue.

An East Devon District Council spokeswoman said: “Environmental Health have received one or two complaints recently from a resident of Temple Street who has been affected by loud music and customer noise.

“These were followed up with the landlord who advised that after FolkWeek he has no more music events planned this summer.

“We have advised him to let us know if he wishes to hold more in the future so that arrangements can be made to manage music noise levels better.”