SAILS could soon be turning at Queen Elizabeth High School, Bromyard, which is in the running to win a £20,000 wind turbine.

The school has entered an eco- competition launched by Homebase and Iskra Wind Turbines to win an energy-saving turbine with a rotor diameter of five metres.

The competition involves pupils conducting a feasibility study, raising money to pay for a planning application and putting together a presentation about why the school deserves to win.

However, the school can only win the high-tech windmill if planning permission is granted.

The school is appealing to local people not to oppose the wind turbine, as local support will help the school in its bid to win.

Year 9 pupil Charlotte Colley said: "We're trying to reduce the school's carbon footprint and make a difference in our changing world.

"Just think what a difference it would make if more and more schools across the UK joined in and became eco-schools. One by one, they will be aiding the fight to preserve our world."

Turbines are a safe, clean way of generating electricity and, with modern technology, the noise generated by them is minimal.

As Queen Elizabeth is situated in a very windy position, a turbine should generate plenty of power, enough to reduce the school's electricity bill £1,000 a year, with the money saved going straight back into classrooms.

Teacher Sue Taylor said: "I've been very impressed by their keenness to do their bit, not just for the school but because they know we need to do something for our environment."

Students from each year in the school have been involved at every stage of the competition, as have several members of staff.

Even if the school does not win, the competition is an educational opportunity to develop the school's green approach and competition organisers will help find alternate funding for the project.