Glamping Owner Admits to Vandalizing Bird Scarers Over Noise Complaints

Nigel Marsh, the owner of the My Mini Break glamping site in Edgefield, Norfolk, has admitted to sabotaging two bird scaring devices. The 61-year-old stated that the gas-powered machines, each costing between £400 and £500, were disturbing his guests with their frequent, loud blasts.

Marsh told Norwich Crown Court on Tuesday that the devices, which could produce noise up to 130 decibels, were placed on the perimeter of his glamping site. He claimed the ongoing issue had led to negative reviews for his business, with guests complaining of noise disturbances from early morning to late evening. Some reviews indicated the sounds were so disruptive they spoiled the experience.

Prosecutors stated that Marsh had initially lodged a complaint with the local district council regarding the bird scarers. However, due to impatience or indifference to the official process, he decided to take matters into his own hands and disable the equipment on August 6, 2024.

Mitigating for Marsh, Dingle Clark described the situation as one where his client felt "client was at the end of his tether and was exasperated." He argued that the criminal damage was minor and the equipment could be repaired. Marsh himself had previously stated that he kept records of the noise and submitted them to the environmental health department, feeling he was left to deal with the issue alone while authorities were ineffective.

Recorder Ruth Brander imposed a 12-month conditional discharge on Marsh, emphasizing that he had "taken the law into your own hands." In addition to the discharge, Marsh was issued a four-year restraining order, prohibiting him from contacting the three individuals involved in the dispute or visiting their properties. He was also ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £26 victim surcharge.