ANGRY residents are stepping up their protest against any future wind farm development on Chilla Moor.

The action group, Chilla Against Turbines (CAT), held a public meeting on September 9 in Halwill village hall with more than a hundred residents attending.

The group's aim is to formulate a strong case for the opposition against the siting of any wind turbines and feelings are running high against any potential development.

Residents from the villages that stand to be affected, including Sheepwash, Highhampton, Black Torrington, Chilla, Halwill, Northlew and Beaworthy, attended the meeting.

The group believes the countryside is being 'plagued by such industrial developments as the Government tries to achieve unrealistic energy targets.'

They further believe that wind turbines are neither efficient nor green and each UK household will ultimately pay per turbine, per year subsidies through increases in their energy bills and taxes.

Their concerns range from the safety of the turbines themselves to the possible health risks from noise, vibration and flicker that could effect any household within a 2km zone.

Zyg Gregorek, owner of Anglers Paradise in Halwill, feels any development would have a 'devastating' effect for not only his own business in terms of water pollution and sonic vibration, but other businesses who could suffer from a severe decline in tourism across the area if any turbines were erected.

Roy Houghton, chairman of CAT, said: 'It was a very well attended meeting and we thank everyone for their ongoing support.

'We have many fund- raising events planned including a family day at Highampton on October 12 and a big fireworks party at Anglers Paradise on October 31 as we need funds to fight our legal case.'

CAT are also looking to recruit a secretary and vice-chairman to help build a defence case.

Energy company Scottish Power, who state it is committed to meeting the Government's renewable energy targets, confirmed it was surveying the area and will adhere to 'very strict rules as well as going through the full planning process.'

Further information about CAT and their work is available from their website http://www.chilla-against-turbines.co.uk">www.chilla-against-turbines.co.uk which now tops the list on Google when 'wind turbine' is typed into the search engine.

Alternatively, contact Alex on 01409 220136 for any further information.