A FORMER village bobby has backed plans for a wind farm which had its initial planning permission quashed after campaigners launched a legal battle.

David Foster has voiced his support for four turbines at Lambs Hill, to the west of Stillington, between Darlington and Stockton, proposed by County Durham developer Banks Renewables.

But opposition groups, who submitted technical queries for a judicial review which prompted Stockton Borough Council to overturn its initial ruling, are maintaining their objections.

Mr Foster, who has lived in the village since 1974, served as local policeman for 17 years until he retired in 1990 and previously held the position of secretary of the local residents association, is calling for a swift, positive resolution to the planning process.

He said: "When it comes to energy, I don't believe we can afford to take a selfish view - everyone needs and consumes the power which schemes like Lambs Hill produce, and it's far better to have this sort of development in the area than, for example, a power station.

"In my opinion, wind turbines impact far less on the landscape than electricity pylons. There are hundreds of those dotted about the countryside around Stillington, but you never hear anyone complaining about them."

But other villagers disagree.

Tom Kirby, of Lambs Hill Action Group, said members believed the small-scale project was inappropriate and wind turbines should be based offshore.

He added: "A lot of time has passed since it was approved, and I think a lot of people have had the chance to see what is going on, which is not in the best interests of anyone but the developer and landowner."