NO action will be taken against the pilot who pretended to 'attack' a Hampshire mansion during war games staged to celebrate a millionaire's birthday.

The Civil Aviation Authority has ruled that the airman did not breach any regulations during a mock battle that caused a storm of protest in the New Forest village of Boldre.

Pensioners living in quiet country lanes near Newtown House complained that the noisy event was "just like the Blitz".

A 1930s fighter aircraft repeatedly roared over the Georgian mansion in a simulated attack on June 2. More than 20 off-duty soldiers from Marchwood took part in the event, which also involved fake explosions and battle re-enactments.

However, a CAA spokesman said the organisers had obtained written permission from the authority to stage the war games.

The decision has surprised Boldre resident Pamela Watson, one of the villagers who lodged a complaint after what was dubbed the Battle of Newtown House.

She said: "If the CAA hasn't found anything wrong I'm surprised.

"The plane kept coming round and round. It was very noisy and appeared to be flying much too low. My kitchen window vibrated."

The event, staged to celebrate the 51st birthday of American tycoon Charles Burnett III, pictured left, raised £26,000 for the Royal British Legion.

Mr Burnett's representative Richard Channell said at the time: "If it hadn't been for the aircraft there wouldn't have been too much of a problem. Maybe the noise was a bit too loud."