A Llandysul farmer has got the go-ahead to place a 32m turbine on his land despite objections from 89 local residents.

Gerwyn James, of Llain, Maesllyn, told this week's Ceredigion development control committee that the turbine would help offset farm energy costs.

He said he had chosen a small turbine because "we don't want to affect the area more than necessary."

But local residents were concerned that the turbine was too close to homes.

"This turbine will have a negative impact on residents lives," said objector Elaine Thomas.

But councillors felt the needs of the farm outweighed the objections.

"There is a duty on us as a council to support small businesses such as farms," said Cllr Wynford Thomas.

"But I am concerned about the number of windmills being put up in this county. This turbine is a toy compared to some of the ones we have given permission. But I still have worries about the sheer number of windmills in Ceredigion."

Cllr Peter Davies said: "There are 89 objections and it is important their voice is heard but we are looking at the future of small familyf arms in Ceredigion."

The turbine was given the go-ahead with conditions - one of which was that the turbine was switched off at night to help the local bat population.

Cllr Dafydd Edwards disagreed with that. "This is just sheer stupidity," he said.