A PROTEST staged to demonstrate the height of the proposed drilling rig at Fernhurst has been branded inaccurate by the energy company involved.

Celtique Energie is poised to submit a planning application to South Downs National Park Authority to carry out exploratory drilling for shale oil or gas in the village.

Celtique has stated it will only apply to use hydraulic fracturing – or "fracking" – if the test data indicates shale oil or gas is present.

Campaign group Frack Free Fernhurst staged "The Big Balloon Bash!", a family-themed event, in Vann Road, on Saturday, which featured a barrage balloon tethered to show how high the rig will be if approved,

The event organisers said it had been a big success, attracting 455 visitors from Fernhurst and surrounding villages.

For full story, see this week's Haslemere Herald.