AN eco-bungalow near Wisbech is opening up its doors to the public next month, to demonstrate its green credentials. The property – built as a smallholding in the 1950 s – now boasts a wind turbine, solar panels, and uses rainwater as a source of hot wate

AN eco-bungalow near Wisbech is opening up its doors to the public next month, to demonstrate its green credentials.

The property - built as a smallholding in the 1950's - now boasts a wind turbine, solar panels, and uses rainwater as a source of hot water.

Tony and Stella Richardson own the property at West Walton, and said: "We hope that Ingleside provides an example of what can be done as a retrofit to any small family home.

"We insulated throughout as part of a necessary refurbishment and later installed a wind turbine.

"When we decided to install a solar panel in 2005 we realised we needed to use soft water and chose rainwater as our source.

" We were unable to find anyone prepared to advise us, so we designed and built the system ourselves, storing 2000 gallons in recycled oil tanks in the garden and using an off the shelf pump and filter."

Ingleside will be open to visitors on Thursday 10 September and Sunday 13 September, as part of the 'Green Buildings in Norfolk - Open Days' event organised by Campaign to Protect Rural England, and booking is essential.

Matt Wicks, Norfolk County Manager for the Energy Saving Trust, said: " The open days are a great opportunity to see the different practical measures to save energy that can be integrated in houses old and new"

James Frost, Director of CPRE Norfolk, added: " Awareness of environmental issues has increased, along with our fuel bills, and many more people are seeking alternatives. This makes the open days a fabulous opportunity to be inspired by buildings and people who are one step ahead and have much to share."

To book a visit to Ingleside ring 01376 531547 by September 11.