A GROUP opposed to plans to build a windfarm in Rossendale are hoping to whip up support and raise funds to fight the proposals if it goes to a public inquiry.

Campaigners involved in the Friends of Scout and Knowl Moor are setting up a fighting fund.

Rossendale Borough Council has already objected to the plans at last month's development control meeting.

The Scout Moor proposal is to site 26 giant turbines between Edenfield and Whitworth.

But because the council decided not to support the £50million project, a public inquiry will be held, probably later this year.

That has prompted the campaigners to raise money to help defeat the development.

The joint application by United Utilities and Peel Holdings is for 300ft turbines on the moors. They claim it will provide green electricity for 51,000 homes in Rossendale, although all local authorities consulted by the Department of Trade about the plans - Rochdale Council, Lancashire County Council and Rossendale - objected to the application.

Edward Smethhurst of Friends of Scout and Knowl Moor said fighting the plans would be costly.

He said: "We are organising a fundraising event.

"We need to have enough money to be able to fight the plans at a public inquiry stage.

"We have a lot of hard work ahead of us so we are set to hold a gala dinner at Horncliffe Mansions, Bury Road, Rawtenstall, where everybody who wants to attend will be made welcome."

The event is being held on Friday, February 6, and will include creative writing inspired by Rossendale's unique landscape.

People will have the chance to express themselves through limerick, prose or poetry.

Awards will be presented on the night for the best readings. For tickets contact Edward on 07836 762272.