Ever wondered what the high pitched whining noise is over a lot of Epsom?

It is the RAC, not the members, but an out-of-date leaf blowing machine being used on their grounds.

The noise can be heard from Roseberry Park to Langley Vale. Despite having a 'Good Neighbour' policy the toffs' golf comes first and you would not want their well-shod golf shoes to come in contact with anything as common as a leaf.

So, giving no regard to anyone living or working nearby the blowing carries on every day of the week, including Sunday.

The problem for the well-heeled is, they say, the cost of replacing the machine. Lee Strutt, the estate manager, said: "We know the machine is noisy and we are reviewing the situation but there are costs involved. We provide a sport for our members and blowing the leaves is good for that environment."

However, it does nothing for the environment of the people living and working around Epsom.

Based on information supplied by Chris Forwood.