'HORRIFIC sounding' wind turbines could soon be breezing in to two Somerset villages – despite residents' fears.

'HORRIFIC sounding' wind turbines could soon be breezing in to two Somerset villages - despite residents' fears.

People from East and West Huntspill say the huge propellered structures will blight the landscape and destroy wildlife if utility giants win approval for plans.

In response to recent proposals to Sedgemoor District Council, battling villagers have now set up a campaign to fight the wind farms.

Julie Trott from The Huntspill Wind Farm Action Group said: "Some types of turbines themselves are relatively quiet, it is the blades moving through the air that make a horrific noise.

"The vibration caused by the turbines can make people physically ill.

"The visual impact on this wonderful part of Somerset will be totally destroyed."

Temporary measuring masts are the first step in the planning process before a wind farm is introduced.

EDF Energy has submitted plans to the district council for a 60m high meteorological data gathering mast on land to the south west of Withy Farm, Withy Grove, in East Huntspill.

A decision on the mast, which will measure the wind speed, is expected in April and the future plans, once submitted and if approved, involve nine turbines on the site.

In addition to this, green electricity company Ecotricity, has submitted plans for a wind measuring mast on land at Black Ditch in West Huntspill, off Puriton Road.

Located next to the Walpole Landfill Site, the future plan includes five turbines which would collect enough power from the wind for 7,810 homes.

Ecotricity say this will be a huge contribution to the ambitious renewable energy targets and will save 11,082 tonnes of CO2.

Sedgemoor District Council planning officer, Chris Gomm, has recommended the measuring mast for approval and a decision is expected this month.

Before a verdict reports from the Ministry Of Defence, Avon and Somerset police and the South Western Ambulance Trust are required as they all use low-flying aircraft in the area.

Huntspill parish councillor Paul Herbert said: "We take the views of the people who have elected us and there is a huge sway against the wind farms. Why blight the landscape?"

Campaigner Ms Trott added: "Imagine how distressing it would be living the whole summer with a light flickering on and off all the time as the sun shines through the wind turbines' moving blades."

The action group will meet tonight (Thurs) at East Huntspill church hall in Church Road at 7pm.