Ref. 71782-16SWINDON'S churches could be heated by solar energy as part of a commitment to helping the environment.

Next week's Swindon Solar Churches Day is a chance for the public to hear how churches and congregations can reduce their impact on the environment.

The event next Wednesday at St Peter's Church, Penhill, has been organised by Swindon Churches Together and the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

Rosemary Power, ecumenical development officer, said: "The older churches are traditionally laid out on an East-West axis, which means plenty of south-facing roof space for solar panels.

"Churches care for others and the environment both here and around the world.

"Contributing to climate changes that cause suffering in other countries is not what we should be doing to our fellow humans."

The Rev Derek Collins, Superintendent Minister of Swindon and Marlborough Circuit, said: "Solar panels are an excellent idea. It's still in the early stages.

"At the moment one of the biggest problems is the initial cost but we are looking closely at both the costings of fuel and our use of fossil fuels.

"For some of the larger churches I can see this as a possibility as long as they can get help with grants through the Energy Saving Trust.

"We have a quarterly plan looking at how we need to re-examine our attitudes. It's all about recycling and reducing our impact on the environment.

"At Bath Road Church all the paper they use is recycled, and the electricity supply has been changed to a green tariff. I'm thrilled that they have actually done this."

Adrian Read, green co-ordinator at the Bath Road Methodist church said: "It really is very simple, and the cost of using a green tariff barely adds anything to the bill only three per cent in the case of our church."

Swindon Solar Churches Day is on Wednesday, August 25, from 10am to 2pm at St Peter's Churchill, Penhill.

A lunch made from Fairtrade or locally-sourced food will be served costing £5. Booking is essential. For more information telephone 01793 320238.

Editor