A Government minister has given his seal of approval to an ever-increasing solar project.

Energy minister Greg Barker joined Hove MP Mike Weatherley in praising Brighton Energy Coop’s solar farm in Shoreham Port during a visit earlier today.

The c-op has raised more than £700,000 in what is believed to be the biggest project of its kind in the South East.

Mr Barker, the MP for Bexhill and Battle, climbed on to the roof of Shed 3a at the port to view the new 800-panel solar array which is currently being installed and will start generating renewable electricity from the middle of next month.

The latest £240,000 section of the scheme has been funded entirely by members of the public, who have bought shares in Brighton Energy Coop over the past three months.

Mr Barker said:"This project here in Shoreham Port, championed by Mike Weatherley MP is a great example of community action.”

For more information on Brighton Energy Coop, visit brightonenergy.org.uk.