Sir, – I’m as keen on doing our bit for the environment as anyone.

But I’m also a realist. And being a realist means not dumbly following anything that comes along, simply because someone in Government has labelled it “green”.

The proposed wind turbines at Wilton are a classic example of this. Environmental campaigners seem very keen to promote this kind of scheme. But in doing so, they ignore the true overall environmental impact it can cause.

Firstly, the construction of the turbines carries with it a very practical environmental cost locally.

The blades make a continuous noise, which varies according to wind strength and direction.

The turbines are visually intrusive, and since beauty is in the eye of the beholder, many people will undoubtedly regard them as a blemish on the countryside.

And the need for enormous earthworks involving drainage and concrete means we reduce the ground’s capacity to absorb water at the very time others in the area are crying out for more flood protection, not less.

Secondly, wind turbines are a bit of a false dawn when it comes to green energy. Wind is as variable as the British weather. That means we need what’s called “spinning reserve”, which is another way to keep the lights on when the air is still. Think of all the duplication that this requires – together with the cost and complexity.

There’s one more point. We have a tremendously well-run and important local jewel in the crown of Redcar near the proposed turbine site. It’s called Yearby Airstrip. This is East Cleveland’s only publicly available runway. The turbines could mean curtains for the airstrip – which has economic costs locally, as well as robbing us of a facility that is cherished and valued by many.

Obviously, there’s a larger debate to be had about energy, ecology and our part in saving the planet. But we can’t let that obscure a logical debate, based on facts, not tokenism. The turbines may look to some like a good idea. But, when you look at ALL the facts, they’re an idea that simply doesn’t make the grade. It’s an ill wind which blows no good. Our MP Ian Swales is fully behind those objecting to the turbines and his help on the matter is very welcome.

If like me you feel strongly enough to stand up for our area on this matter please, please get your objection letters in to Redcar and Cleveland council by April 1.

SABRINA THOMPSON Kirkleatham Lane, Redcar.