A DEMONSTRATION to show the height of 15 wind turbines which are being considered for the Chilla Valley Moor area will take place this weekend.

Chilla Against Turbines Committee (CAT) have arranged to fly a 'blimp' balloon at 410 feet in the hope to demonstrate to farmers and residents in the surrounding area just how high the turbines would be.

West Devon and Torridge MP Geoffrey Cox will officially launch the balloon on Saturday March 7 at 1.30pm from Windrift Farm, Beara Cross, Black Torrington.

Chairman of CAT, Roy Houghton, said: 'While we cannot demonstrate the sheer scale of all 15 turbines, or indeed the substation, pylons and potential health risks caused from low frequency noise levels, we hope this event shows that these proposed turbines will be seen from miles around.

'So far three farmers have said yes, and we want to show them exactly what they are saying yes to.

'It's hard to imagine the scale of these turbines and so we hope by flying the blimp, it will give everyone a better idea.

'We want to stop it going any further and help support the community.

'We want people to understand the enormity of these turbines.

'Why ruin a beautiful rural Devon valley. There are protected species in the area too, so the turbines will not just affect people.'

A spokesperson for the international energy company Scottish Power, which is looking at the area, said: 'We are still investigating the site and conducting a feasibility study to look at access, the ground, how good the wind is, and infrastructure.

'Any possible development would be years away, at which time we would make our next decision.'

Everyone is welcome to the demonstration and refreshments will be provided. If the wind is too strong, the event will be postponed and rescheduled.

CAT campaigns against the development of wind turbines built in rural areas, raising awareness of health and environmental issues it says turbines can have on a community.

For more information, phone Alex on 01409 220136 or visit http://www.chilla-against-turbines.co.uk">www.chilla-against-turbines.co.uk