BBC 'considers vuvuzela free WC coverage'

The BBC is reportedly considering ways to transmit a "vuvuzela free" version of its World Cup games amid complaints about the buzzing horns.

Fans, players and coaches have objected to the constant, loud drone of the plastic horns during matches, but the local tournament organisers argue that they are an important part of the atmosphere in South Africa.

Critics of the horns say that the noise, which has been likened to a swarm of bees, masks the ebb and flow of matches and makes it hard to hear the noise of the crowd.

Players from various nations have also complained about the horns, including France star Patrice Evra saying that they are keeping him awake at night.

After receiving over 545 complaints from viewers about the vuvuzela, the BBC has decided to review options for directly addressing the issue.

Even though the corporation is committed to reflecting the atmosphere in South Africa, it is understood to be considering options for offering a "clean" feed during games.

Available via the Red Button, the "vuvuzela free" coverage would strip out of the vast majority of crowd noise, including the controversial horns.

Speaking last night, a BBC spokesman said: "We have already taken steps to minimise the noise and are continuing to monitor the situation.

"If the vuvuzela continues to impact on audience enjoyment, we will look at what other options we can take to reduce the volume further."

However, the local World Cup organising committee has argued that the horns are an important part of South African football culture and "will never be banned".

A spokesman told The Guardian: "This is a world event hosted by South Africa. As our guests, please embrace our culture and the way we celebrate.

"You either love them or you hate them. We in South Africa love them."

There has even been suggestion that English football fans will bring vuvuzelas to Premier League grounds next season, with UK supermarket chains already reporting strong sales of the horns.