YORK residents have been urged to look more closely at green energy alternatives by an environmentally-friendly family.

The Richards family, who live on the edge of Naburn Wood, off the A19, between Naburn and Escrick, toasted their new wind turbine at the weekend.

They believe the 50ft high generator, coupled with a bank of solar-power cells soon to be installed on the roof of their home, will supply all of their energy needs.

Dr Robert Richards, who has also organised the replanting of 20 acres of ancient woodland near his home, said other York householders should look at their "green" options.

He said other residents should look at generating their own electricity through renewable sources which, although costly to set up, can pay for themselves in the long term.

He said: "It should provide more than enough for household consumption and as part of our energy programme we have switched over to an electric heating system to take advantage of it.

"Our plan is to eventually power everything through renewable energy sources. Extra electricity will be fed back in to the local grid as even the most efficient batteries are not very effective."

Councillors gave permission for the installation of the £19,000 wind turbine and rooftop photo-voltaic cells last year.

The former game keeper's cottage is shielded from view by a large number of trees.

The family has received a £5,000 grant from the Department of Trade and Industry as part of the "clear skies" scheme which aims to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Mr Richards, a research chemist who also manages several properties, said the recent strong winds had tested the Scottish-built turbine.

It can create a maximum five kilowatts of electricity.

It can withstand wind speeds of up to 150mph because of an ingenious design which closes the three blades like flower petals when winds strengthen.

Mr Richards, a keen bell-ringer who lives with his wife, Clare, and children Jack, seven, and Kezia, three, said neighbours had been very interested in the development.

He said: "It's not like a big commercial turbine which you can see from miles-and-miles away. In fact it is smaller than some radio aerials."

Updated: 08:24 Monday, March 22, 2004