Turbines to be lifted into place

The 35m blades of two wind turbines which will power a Ford plant are set to be lifted into place later in April.

The 85m towers were approved by Havering and Barking and Dagenham councils last year.

They will generate electricity for Ford's diesel centre in Dagenham, Essex, and make up part of London's first major "wind park".

The turbines, which can generate enough power for 2,400 homes, are set to start producing electricity by the summer.

Ford of Britain chairman Roger Putnam said: "Once installed, the wind turbines will change the Dagenham and East London skyline forever.

"There were good business and environmental reasons for embarking on this project."

Dale Vince, managing director of Ecotricity, which is involved in the project, said: "Our turbines will be providing Ford with enough electricity to power 3,000 homes, and we hope the project will raise awareness of wind power as a viable alternative energy source."