Government representatives have visited a Sevenhampton farm to discuss sustainable energy projects with a farmer who wants to build a wood-burning power station.

The meeting happened yesterday at Rupert Burr's Roves Farm, where Mr Burr is hoping to build a £4 million station to generate heat and power.

Jeremy Pope, of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' implementation group said: "The project is an excellent example of how Defra's Sustainable Food and Farming Strategy is developing.

"Enterprising individuals and groups can contribute to a sustainable future by providing energy from renewable resources."

The wood-burning project has already been awarded a £1 million grant from the National Lottery New Opportunities fund.

Provided planning permission is given and investment is attracted, the plant should open in 2005.