Somerset residents can breathe a collective sigh of relief after Government stepped in to remind model powerboat owners that using their boats in the area was illegal.

Repeated complaints by residents about the "scourge" of powerboats in the area led to the publication of a notice informing the public that the practice was banned.

According to the 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations Section 3 (p), it is not permitted to operate a model powerboat, vehicle or aeroplane in a protected area unless an official notice in the area states it is allowed.

Mangrove Bay Park, Somerset Long Bay Park and Daniel's Head Park are all protected areas and ignoring the rules by using model vehicles can lead to fines of up to $1,000 or $200 a day for repeat offenders.

Although a past Director of Parks granted exemption from this restriction to members of a model powerboat club, that exemption no longer applies.

A Department of Parks spokesman said: "In the 1990s a previous Director had given permission for the Sandys Model Boat Club to use the Somerset Long Bay and Mangrove Bay area to operate their remote control boats.

"However, as a result of the noise, residents in the area complained constantly to the Department of Parks and the Somerset Police station. The Department has also had continuous complaints from Cambridge Beach hotel about the model boats.

"This ban was requested by the National Parks Commission and therefore the permission to operate model boats in Somerset Long Bay and Mangrove Bay has now been revoked."

Now the only area on the Island where boats can be used is Kindley Field Park (Stokes Harbour) in St. George's.

However, all is not lost for remote-control boat owners. Speaking on behalf of the Department of Parks, Drew Pettit said: "We do try to support passive recreation. If they (the model powerboat operators) can find another location we would consider that. The concerns for us are noise and wildlife."

Resident, John Ross said: "It's like a dentist using a drill that is 60 years old. It's just an unbelievably awful noise."

"I live in Mangrove Bay and it's a nightmare when they are there," he continued. "You can hear them as far away as Scott's Hill.

"I am thrilled and most appreciative for the action taken. I am very grateful to Drew Pettit, the Director and the Parks Officer. The residents of Mangrove Bay are pleased and I look forward to increased co-operation from the Police."

Another resident who did not wish to be named added: "We live near Watford Bridge, about a quarter of a mile from the beach but we have to close our windows and doors to keep the noise out. We have called the Police on several occasions."

Another neighbour was more reserved in his reaction, expressing concern that the ban would only be effective if the people committing the offence actually read it.

He did not question the right of enthusiasts to pursue their hobby, however he added: "Somewhere needs to be found where they can do it in a less-densely populated area."