Protesters complaining about helicopter flights making too much noise during Deal Regatta Week have been labelled as “party-poopers and miserable”.

The description came from John Trickey, chairman of the Deal, Walmer and Kingsdown Regatta Association, who was left angry at the loss of the popular trips, now banned.

Flights by Manston-based Heli-Charter took place during the weekend before the carnival and also on the day of the procession. But complaints were made to the district council, much to the annoyance of the regatta committee.

Mr Trickey added: “As an unpaid volunteer who has successfully run Deal Regatta for the past 17 years, I found these disappointing comments from people quite offensive.

“My solution to those complaining would be to simply to go out for the day. To allow a few to stop the helicopters is the thin edge of the wedge – for it will not stop there. Will it be the funfair, the fireworks or even the carnival next, for they are all a lot noisier than a few helicopter rides?”

Manston-based Heli-Charter’s day-time flights were advertised for the first weekend of Deal Regatta Week and also on the day of the procession, based on the prom just south of Walmer Green.

Ellen Pughe, the company’s operations assistant, said: “The only site that is suitable to fly from and adheres to the rules and regulations put in place by the Civil Aviation Authority is the site we have used for the past 10 years at least.

“Unfortunately, due to three complainants, Dover District Council will not allow us to carry on operating from this site. We cannot find an alternative site for our operations to take place.”

Complaints made to the council prompted officers to monitor noise. A council spokesman said: “The situation does need to be improved. They have not been told they cannot operate in future. We are happy to work with the company and event organisers on a compromise.”