Villagers have claimed the noise from an annual shooting event was “like being tortured”.

Essex Gun Masters 200 Sporting Championship sees marksmen from across the country travel to Hepworth Hall to take part in a week long clay pigeon shoot competition.

But one Great Maplestead resident has complained to Braintree Council about the event, held last week.

One resident, who lives two miles from the hall, said noise barriers to deflect the sound of the guns were ineffective.

He said: “There were about 90 shots per minute for eight hours a day which works out at 5,400 shots an hour.

“I’m not a townie, I’ve lived in the countryside all my life so I’m well used to countryside staples like tractors and horses but this is far beyond a country activity, this is a competition shooting event.

“And the noise just goes on and on and on and you can’t get away from it, it was like we were being tortured. People might say that if we don’t like we should go out during the day but why should I be forced out of my home?”

A spokesman for the council said: “We take all complaints about noise seriously and respond accordingly. This event was monitored and visited to inspect the layout and operation.

“Experience from last year’s event was put into practice and we continue to work with the operator to make further improvements.

“We do not put up noise barriers but can advise on their use. An event of this nature and size is never going to be inaudible but the council must balance the various, sometimes contradictory, desires of residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

Essex Gun Masters said it had been a “successful event” and there had been “positive feedback” about competitors using facilities in the area.

A spokesman said: “The competition, despite the weather, was again enjoyed and attended by competitors from all corners of the UK and Europe.”

They did not respond to the complaints.