WHAT is expected to be the first of a number of energy plants in the region is to be opened at the end of the year - with crops from Herefordshire helping to feed it.

The new plant, just over the county border at Bockleton in Worcestershire, already has several growers signed up to supply it but more are needed to ensure the project's future.

"We are hoping this will be the first of many plants," said Richard Collins, director of John Amos Energy Ltd, of Leominster, who is helping to guide the project through its various stages.

"We have another bigger local project in the pipeline but are unable to release details yet."

Mr Collins is holding an open evening on energy crops, specifically miscanthus, at the Maidenhead pub at Orleton, on Monday, September 5, from 6pm until 7.30pm.

During the evening, an energy crop in a field behind the pub will be inspected. Mr Collins said the event was open to all - but especially those interested in renewable energy.

"This is an opportunity for potential growers to view the crop first-hand.

"With the power stations that have been developed, we will require more growers.

"Fortunately, we are getting a lot of interest from across the country."

The Bockleton plant will require crops from some 100 to 150 acres and until more local farmers come on stream, it will be taking miscanthus, wood chippings and forest clearings.

Mr Collins said growing energy crops should be a profitable exercise for local farmers.

Returns were certainly good compared to present wheat prices and the crop could be grown on set-aside with top-up payments and planting grants also available.

"There will be contracts with price per tonne and farmers will know their yield for 15 to 20 years.

"We will be planning for planting next March or April," he added.