A FIRM of solicitors has confirmed that a letter has been sent to management of a North-East motor racing circuit, warning them they could face a private law suit if they breach statutory noise limits.

People with homes in the area have long insisted that, since the track at Croft, near Darlington, was rejuvenated as a motorsport venue in the early 1990s, cars roaring around it have blighted their lives.

Some even claim their health has suffered, a local GP confirming complaints of depression, stress and anxiety could be linked with noise many say they can hear clearly in their own homes.

Richmondshire District Council insists its hands are tied as management at Croft entered into a unilateral agreement with the Department of the Environment, which allows the circuit to continue to operate as long as set noise levels are not exceeded.

Residents nonetheless demanded action in 2000, which was enough to persuade the local authority to consider a Noise Abatement Notice.

However, it backed down on the advice of its own legal expert, and salt was rubbed into the wounds when it emerged it had also paid Croft's management the costs they incurred preparing their defence.

The council is now examining if complaints of ill health by residents allow more room for manoeuvre.

But one unnamed resident has already taken action, instructing a Leeds firm of solicitors to act on his behalf.

A spokesperson for Walker Morris said: "We have engaged an expert to take noise measurements around the circuit and a letter requesting remedial action has been sent to Croft."

If there is no reply, the circuit could face a private law suit as a result.

A spokesperson for Croft's management confirmed a letter had been received from Walker Morris, but declined to comment further.