LOUD bangs have been heard in the Holmer area of Hereford for the last few days.

People from across the city have taken to social media to query the explosion-like sounds, which have been heard at irregular intervals since Friday morning.

Some have complained that the bangs have kept their children awake, while others have suggested that the noises might have been coming from the circus.

But the noises are actually caused by a bird scarer.

The gas gun device is located on the Holmer Road industrial site, home to several businesses, where a large colony of seagulls has taken up residence.

The seagulls have been nesting on rooftops in the area, and their chicks are now reaching adolescence.