Lights out for starry-eyed town

People could look to the sky on 21 March in Alford

The people of Alford in Aberdeenshire are being encouraged to 'Switch Off - Look Up' to highlight energy waste and to enjoy the night sky.

The campaign is aimed towards the vernal equinox on 21 March when winter changes to spring.

Organisers hopes to monitor the drop in energy consumption if the one-hour plan proceeds, as well as seeing more stars.

Organiser Russell Ward said: "People used to see fantastic night stars. Now there's the glare of street lights."

Few stars

Mr Ward told BBC Scotland's news website: "There's something so romantic about seeing the night sky.

"At the moment you will not find too many pedestrians at night but also find hardly any stars."

He hopes the energy saving message as well as the night sky opportunity will win support for the plan.

Aberdeenshire Council and community groups have been contacted about the idea.