Solar panels installed on Balcombe primary schools

The village of Balcombe which was at the centre of protests against fracking, has moved a step towards becoming self-sufficient for energy.

More than 50 local investors have helped pay for solar panels at Balcombe Primary School and Turners Hill School following a pilot scheme.

The scheme saw 69 panels installed on a cowshed at Grange Farm.

The village is also aiming to install a 5MW solar farm at nearby Chiddinglye Farm, West Hoathly.

The panels would provide enough electricity to supply both Balcombe and West Hoathly.