PROTESTERS against plans to erect giant turbines on the Pennines have been told to expect a decision next June.

E.ON have appealed against Oldham Council's decision in February not to allow a wind farm on Denshaw Moor.

Senior planning officer Adele Hayes told Saddleworth Parish Council Planning Committee this week to expect a verdict early next summer.

The plan for seven 365ft turbines was initially proposed by United Utilities in October, 2003, but was then sold on to E.ON UK, the owner of Powergen, for an undisclosed amount.

Oldham councillors decided in February not to allow the scheme. Local opposition to the scheme centred on the damage they could cause and the precedent the farm could set for other projects nearby.

Margaret Thatcher's former Press secretary, Bernard Ingham and green campaigner David Bellamy joined the protest.