FEARS over the planting of genetically modified crops in the region will be aired at a meeting with industry experts tomorrow.

Within the next few weeks, modified oil seed rape is to be planted at Oakenshaw, near Willington, County Durham.

Aventis CropScience UK, which is carrying out the trials, said there is no need for people to be concerned.

But villagers and green campaigners are objecting to the trials, and asked for tomorrow's meeting with representatives of Aventis CropScience UK, and the Department of Trade and Industry.

An emergency meeting was held in the village last Wednesday, when people voiced their concerns.

Green party candidate Carl Bennett, of Bishop Auckland, said: "Residents are very scared.

"The whole issue revolves around the fact that the people of Oakenshaw were not consulted and have not been allowed to object.

"This is not an anti-science campaign, but we must make sure the technology is safe."

The meeting takes place at Oakenshaw Working Men's Club, at 7.30pm.

Mr Bennett is also collecting signatures against the trials, and will be in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, on Thursday, with his petition.