Movement to muzzle vuvuzelas

DURBAN, South Africa – It may be a must-have for every fan at the World Cup, but sports venues around the globe are trying to make sure the blare of vuvuzelas doesn’t catch on beyond South Africa.

The All England Club led the charge in discouraging the din of the plastic horns Thursday by banning them at this year’s Wimbledon tournament. German soccer club Borussia Dortmund followed suit, saying the instruments – which have become a symbol of the 2010 World Cup – won’t be welcome at matches next season.

While FIFA and local South African organizers are embracing the omnipresent drone of the cheap trumpets, other sports events don’t seem too fond of them.

“Out of courtesy to the players and their fellow spectators, we make a point of asking spectators not to bring items which could either cause a distraction or interfere with the enjoyment of the occasion,” All England Club chief executive Ian Ritchie said. “Rattles, klaxons and vuvuzelas all fall into that category and they will not be allowed into the grounds. Our message is do not bring them in the first place.”

The constant drone during matches — often compared to the sound of a swarm of bees — has been a source of annoyance to both broadcasters and players.