For some time now people across Wirral have been wondering what is behind an odd humming noise that can be heard in different parts of the peninsula.
And finally, the answer can be revealed.
Wirral Council has confirmed that the sound - which has enraged numerous locals - is being caused by a ship on the docks at Cavendish Wharf, Birkenhead .
Speculation over what is making the noise has grown in recent days, with explanations ranging from wind farms, to helicopters and even aliens.
But today Wirral Council confirmed the noise was being made by the ship which was supposed to have left the dock by now.
A spokesperson for Wirral Council said: “We can confirm that officers from the Council are working with a shipping agency to reduce the noise being created by generators on a ship currently berthed at Cavendish Wharf.
“The ship is currently unable to leave the dock as expected however this will be resolved as soon as possible.
“Officers are working to ensure that the crew switch to one generator for tonight instead of two, and that tomorrow the ship is moved and positioned in a way to reduce any residual noise as much as possible.
“The generators must remain in use in order to provide safety functions within the vessel active.”
Locals have become increasingly frustrated at the noise made by the ship.
Sue O’Brien, who lives in Birkenhead, said: “I can hear it by Duke Street. It’s been like this for a good few nights now. It’s proper doing my head in.”
Others in the Wirral Gossip Facebook page were also annoyed by the noise, one person said it kept him up last night and another asked for those responsible to hurry up and finish what they are doing.
But Wirral Council’s confirmation should at least allay the concerns of those unsure of what the noise was.
Another member of the Facebook group suggested the wind farm off New Brighton was responsible. He said: “[The wind farm is] louder recently because it has been windy.”
Electricity pylons and the ventilation systems for the Wallasey Tunnel were also suggested as possible local causes, but some from further afield said they could also hear the noise.
Another of the Facebook group’s members, said: “Heard it all day in Eastham . Heavy machinery of an unsilenced ventilation system.”
Some could not resist the temptation to make light of the situation, suggesting the noise was being made by mysterious aliens.
