Let's be honest, most of us have had a nuisance in our bedroom from time-to-time, but rarely we do get the opportunity for the powers-that-be - in this case, Lambeth Noise Squad, actually rule that it's a statutory nuisance. The excitement of it!
The noise squad arrived at 3.30, and sod's law declared that this was a time of pause in the loud electronic thud thud music being 'sung' along to in the room next to my dining/computer room (which is underneath the main bedroom). They listened in, and then they asked to go to the bedroom, where the noise from the back garden mingled with the noise from downstairs to be a Statutory Noise Nuisance!
The process is that they serve the abatement notice on them. That can have the effect of quietening things down...the 'music' has stopped (3.55 am) but there are still drugged-up morons shouting and generally having hysterics, although there have been clear signs of significant departures. The Noise Squad warned me that they have no control over what happens after they serve the abatement notice. I guess some people have to sense to call it a day, whereas others think it's the sign of a great party, think it's a laugh and start again, as they next door seem to be doing at 4.10 am.
They then follow up with a letter and I also get a letter. For a first offence they get away with a warning. Repeat offenders can get prosecuted - criminal record, fine, nice stuff like that. And if it persists into the night, I can call up the noise team, who close at 5 am, and log the fact that it has continued.
In theory, the noisy bitches won't know who has complained, but I would imagine it doesn't take genius to work out that it's most likely to be semi-detached neighbour. I did think - I wonder if some drunk or high attender will put a brick through my window.
I started this post at 3.55. I am finishing it at 5.25. The stereo is on relatively low but still very audible next door, and they are shouting, screaming, grunting, breaking out into occasional choruses of out-of-tune singing.
I hope they rot in hell. And they will hope the same as blessed relief after I have finished with them.
