Far from "Feeling the Love", fed-up Flatts residents are up in arms over a festival run by the Department of Tourism.

A newsletter distributed throughout the village suggests that Flatts Family Fun Festival should be "discontinued immediately".

Complaints about the new event, which will be held every Thursday night until the end of August, include loud music and a lack of tourists.

The flyer states the event was a waste of taxpayers' money and added: "Residents are essentially locked in their homes once a week for five hours.

"Attendance at the first three events has been poor, and almost entirely local. There have been very few tourists in evidence."

Tourism Minister Ewart Brown, responding to the complaints, last night said the Ministry was aware of complaints.

"Due to concerns, effective last night steps will be taken to modify various aspects of the event, including moving the stage to another area and shortening the length of the road restrictions."

He added that Director of Tourism, Cherie Whitter, had been in regular contact with many of the concerned residents. She said the event, part of the "Feel the Love" summer series, would be "closely monitored" to see if more changes were needed.