A BALLOON was released 81 metres into the air in Okehampton?s Simmons Park last Thursday to demonstrate to the public how high the proposed wind turbines would be. The demonstration was organised by management at the Manor House Hotel, which is hotly opposed to the wind farm scheme. Andrew Brint, general manager at the hotel, said they chose to fly the balloon at Simmons Park as it was so accessible to the public. Mr Brint said: ?I think the general view was ?Crikey, that?s high?. ?By flying it in the park people could see how high it was in comparison with the leisure centre and the trees, it gave some perspective.? Mr Brint said the balloon would be flown over the proposed site at Yelland today (Thursday) and Friday, to enable planning inspectors to gain an idea of the height of the proposed wind turbines.
