Netherhall School in Maryport, Cumbria, has erected a new wind turbine with the help of a £19,000 grant from energy company E.ON.

The 15 metre high, 6kw turbine, which has been installed in one of the school's fields, will supply renewable energy to a number of sports facilities used by the school and the local community.

Jane Branscombe, Community Relations Manager with E.ON, said: "We're delighted to be able to contribute towards this exciting project for Netherhall School as part of our new SOURCE scheme, which is designed to help community groups get their sustainable energy projects off the ground.

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"The school was looking to provide sustainable and subsidised energy for the recently constructed sports hall, astro-turf pitches, tennis courts and swimming pool, which are all used by the local community."

The turbine is expected to save the emission of almost three tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, and a display board showing wind-speed and electricity readings will be positioned in the school's science laboratories.

The wind turbine will provide a tangible focus for the teachings of the school's science and geography departments on sustainable energy practices, as well as helping the school to reduce its carbon footprint.

(CD/JM)