Ferries powered by solar energy

Two of the 1920s Coniston ferries are being converted

Passenger ferries on one of Cumbria's most popular lakes will soon be powered by solar energy.

The innovative plan will see diesel engines in two 1920s launches replaced with solar powered engines.

The £100,000 scheme has been hailed as the first of its kind in the UK and is backed by grants from the Lake District National Park and the government

The vessels, owned by Coniston Launch, begin trials in December, with a full service operating by Easter 2005.

Countryside Minister Alun Michael, who is supporting the scheme, called it "a very exciting idea".

New technology

"This is seen a step forward in treating the environment and the economy of the Lake District seriously," he said.

Gordon Hall, who runs Coniston launch, said: "This is the first time in the UK that water going passenger vessels have been fitted with solar powered engines.

"Solar panels are fitted to the boats and will be able to run for about 90 minutes once they have been charged.

"It is costing about £50,000 for each boat.

"We begin trials with the new technology in December and plan to be running a service just after Christmas."

Part of the grant aid has come from the government's sustainable development fund, which has so far paid out more than £3m to projects round the UK.