An ice cream van in Tonyrefail, South Wales, has been forced to stop playing its chimes during the heatwave after just one resident complained they were "excessively loud" and "causing a regular disturbance."
Ice cream man Mark Edwards, who has visited the Capel Farm estate for years on his usual rounds, was told he must cut off his music after 7pm or face breaking the law.
Legal duty under the Control of Pollution Act
Under the Control of Pollution Act 1974, ice cream vans are only permitted to sound their chimes between noon and 7pm. A Rhondda Cynon Taf Council spokesperson said that while it understands concerns from the local community, officers have a legal duty to enforce the law.
News of the ban triggered fury among Mr Edwards' "loyal customers," with local children no longer able to enjoy the sights and sounds that come with their favourite summer treat. One person wrote: "The kids will be devastated!! There are some sad sad people in the world.. so angry." Another said: "What has the world come to!"
Community petition and agreement
After Mr Edwards announced he would no longer stop at the estate, local parents set up a petition to ask the council to overturn the decision. Organisers wrote: "Our beloved ice cream driver has been a cherished figure in our community for as long as I can remember."
"For years, his cheerful jingles could be heard around the corner, bringing joy to generations of children and offering sweet treats that have become vital parts of our summers. He has always gone above and beyond, providing a welcoming smile and a heartfelt conversation to anyone who approaches his truck."
The petition added that the ice cream man is viewed as a "pillar" of the Rhondda community and the complaint made against him "is not reflective of the community's appreciation for his work."
Mr Edwards has since reached an agreement with residents and is set to continue visiting in his van - but without sounding his chimes.
Council statement
A spokesperson for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said: "We received a noise complaint about music being played by the ice cream van after 8pm in the evening. This was looked into and was found to be true.
"We contacted the owner of the vehicle with a standard letter to remind them of the requirements set out in law. The law requires a 7pm cut off to the chimes being used but does not prevent them from trading after this time, and we consider this matter closed.
"We completely understand the comments from the community, but we do have a legal duty that compels us to look at all noise complaints under the Control of Pollution Act 1974. The legislation is not written by us, but we are legally bound to enforce it."
