Boaters reported for blaring Rick Astley hit at 1.40am

Villagers living along the River Ant and River Bure were rudely awoken by the vessel playing Rick Astley's 1987 song, Never Gonna Give You Up, at loud volume. 

The men, believed to be on a hire craft, were seen wearing flashing lights while passing through Ludham Bridge. The revellers were spotted going under Acle Bridge about an hour later.

Ludham Bridge crosses the River Ant in the Norfolk Broads (Image: Danielle Booden)

Eyewitnesses claim they did not have their navigation lights on and it is thought they may have been drinking alcohol.

Complaints were made to the Humber Coastguard, who then informed Broads rangers.

A description of the vessel was circulated to the boats on patrol but they were unable to locate the culprits, thanks to a lack of clear identification such as the boat's name or registration number.

Early morning views looking towards Acle Bridge (Image: Newsquest)

The antics could be dubbed an example of 'rickrolling', a trend where Never Gonna Give You Up plays in unexpected contexts. 

However, a number of people living along the rivers failed to see a funny side, with many writing on Facebook to see if anyone else heard the commotion.

One user said: "[They were] living their best life and having fun I’m sure, but with all the accidents lately, I just hope they’re all safely moored up somewhere now and sleeping it off."

Others described it as "reckless behaviour".

Another said: "This is how bad accidents happen. It gives the tourism trade a bad name."

Broads Authority rangers were unable to locate the vessel (Image: Newsquest)

According to the Broads Authority the boaters broke navigation bylaws, as hire crafts lack proper safety lights and should not travel after dark.

A spokesman said: "If not given respect, the waterways can be dangerous at the best of times.

"However, navigating in the dark without lights under the influence of alcohol brings a whole host of additional safety concerns and we would strongly urge anyone to reconsider doing so.

"We urge all who come here to be mindful of others. This includes sticking to speed limits, watching your wash, minding your noise levels and behaving in a considerate manner."