Looking at the History of Deceptive Bends —the iconic warning sign once synonymous with the winding A24 through the Mole Valley—one is reminded of the importance of respecting both the environment and the communities that live within it. The evolution of environmental and nuisance law (as reflected in cases such as  Rylands v Fletcher) demonstrates that excessive noise is not simply the responsibility of the individual creating it. Responsibility may also extend to those who organise, encourage or knowingly permit activities that result in an ongoing noise nuisance. The underlying principle is one of environmental responsibility and respect for the reasonable expectation of local residents to the peaceful enjoyment of their homes balanced with the rights of others to pursue lawful activities in a manner that does not create unreasonable nuisance.