BANNING helicopter flights from the Three Counties Showground because of only a handful of complaints about noise is "absolutely ridiculous", a local landowner has claimed.

Complaints about noise caused by helicopters during this year's Three Counties Countryside Show has led to suggestions the pleasure rides should not be allowed at future shows.

Malvern Hills District Council is stepping in to help find a compromise to suit both sides. MHDC and the showground both received a small number of complaints about the helicopters, which were a popular attraction for visitors at this years' show.

"It's ridiculous that something which gives great pleasure to so many people should be banned because of a tiny number of complaints," said Basil Moss, whose land was used by the helicopters for taking off and landing.

Mr Moss said the flights followed a tradition begun in the 1930s when a flying circus came to Malvern each year to do stunts and offer pleasure rides.

"There were lots of small planes. It was great entertainment then and people in Malvern enjoyed the spectacle and no-one complained about the noise. I went up in one of the helicopters at the show and it was fantastic," said Mr Moss.

However, Maria Whittaker, who lives near the showground, wrote to Malvern Wells Parish Council complaining about noise made by helicopters circling over her home.

Last week Andy Ferguson, Malvern Hills District Council environment team manager, said he was going to ask show organisers not to repeat the helicopter flights but now he is hoping to find a compromise.

"We're not in the business of putting an outright ban on anything that makes a lot of noise," said Mr Ferguson.

"The show is only three days each year but the noise did have a big impact on people nearby. We're going to see if we can find a way round the problem that suits everyone."