Event highlights renewable energy

A wind turbine has been installed at the museum

Residents and businesses in County Durham are being given the chance to view alternative energy sources at a County Durham railway museum.

The two-day event, at Locomotion: the National Railway Museum at Shildon, features local suppliers of renewable energy technologies.

It aims to show that using renewable energy does not have to mean a change in lifestyle or appliances.

There will also be a fashion show of costumes made from recycled materials.

Companies taking part on Saturday and Sunday include specialists in solar panels, small scale wind turbines and biomass boiler systems.

George Muirhead, the museum manager, said: "I believe many people will find this exhibition a real eye-opener.

"Equipment now available to help reduce energy costs and the carbon footprint is clearly well developed and becoming more accessible."