Boaters reported for blasting out Rick Astley hit

A group of boaters has been reported to the authorities for playing a cult classic pop hit on a loop in the early hours of the morning.

Villagers living along the River Ant and River Bure in Norfolk were woken up by the vessel blasting out Rick Astley’s 1987 song, Never Gonna Give You Up at 01:40 BST.

The men, believed to be on a hire craft, were seen wearing flashing lights while passing through Ludham Bridge, before being spotted going under Acle Bridge.

Witnesses said they did not have their navigation lights on and it was thought they may have been drinking alcohol, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Complaints were made to the Humber Coastguard, which then informed Broads rangers.

The vessel's description was circulated to patrol boats but they were unable to locate those responsible due to a lack of clear identification.

The antics may have been considered "Rickrolling", a trend where Never Gonna Give You Up plays in unexpected contexts.

A number of people complained about the group on social media.

One user wrote: "[They were] living their best life and having fun I’m sure, but with all the accidents lately, I just hope they’re all safely moored up somewhere now and sleeping it off."

Others described it as "reckless behaviour".

Another said: "This is how bad accidents happen. It gives the tourism trade a bad name."

According to the Broads Authority, the boaters broke navigation bylaws as hire crafts lack proper safety lights and should not travel after dark.

A spokesman said: "If not given respect, the waterways can be dangerous at the best of times.

"However, navigating in the dark without lights, under the influence of alcohol, brings a whole host of additional safety concerns and we would strongly urge anyone to reconsider doing so.

"We urge all who come here to be mindful of others - this includes sticking to speed limits, watching your wash, minding your noise levels and behaving in a considerate manner."

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