My answer would always be if the engine starts easily, use it and the hell with jobswuffs who would tell you no. Just don't ask. Go when nobody else is around. if its a natural lake it maybe doesn't belong to anyone, so go ahead. if the owner can prove it can't be used, by proving he IS the owner, then desist and find another body of water. There are quite a few in Wales after all. Alas, if you join a local club they will be bound to say no IC engines. They nearly all tend to now, whether they have the right to or not. I'd say leave them alone and enjoy yourself on a river or natural lake. Only if you just cannot find anywhere to run IC should you give in to electric. Good luck.

Martin
The Anarchists Boat Club.