Rodney the parrot has ruffled a few feathers among even the most ardent of royalists - after whistling God Save the Queen all day long.

The African grey, an avid Olympics fan, has been belting out the national anthem from 7am when he is let out in his cage into the back garden.

But the dawn chorus has not struck a chord with people living nearby in Lordswood.

One of them has sent his owner Michael Sargison an anonymous letter pleading for some peace and quiet.

Freelance hairdresser Michael said he understands their gripes but, in Rodney's defence, says he does vary his repertoire.

Michael, 58, said: "I have taught him Match of the Day and The Great Escape, but I have to say after spending a fortnight watching the Games when the national anthem was played so often, that's his number one at the moment."

"Our tortoise, George, who is about 80, is not bothered either way" – Michael Sargison, on parrot Rodney's whistling

He said: "I have been round to the immediate neighbours and they think it's quite funny.

"I have agreed to put him out a bit later and feed him, which usually keeps him quiet for at least 20 minutes.

"What I would like to say to whoever wrote the letter that he does do requests."

Michael and partner Joanne Chrystie, 47, a carer working in Sittingbourne, got Rodney - named after Del Boy's brother in Only Fools and Horses - because "if you are going to get a pet you want one that can talk to you".

He keeps a close eye on him on CCTV while working part-time at Reem salon in Church Street and puts him outside in the summer because the sunlight improves his feathers.

Granddad Michael said: "He's a big hit with children around here. Our tortoise, George, who is about 80, is not bothered either way."