Giant wind generators planned in the centre of The Weaver Valley could cost the region's tourism trade millions in lost revenue - say objectors.

The cluster of four 410ft high turbines, which are 100ft taller than Big Ben and would even dwarf the Fiddlers Ferry Cooling Tower, would be amongst the tallest in the UK.

Applicants Tegni Cymru, backed by developers Germania Wind Park, are proposing to build the wind farm in the middle of Weaver Valley Regional Park, at Aston Grange, Frodsham.

Campaign group Stop Aston Wind Farm (SAW) are opposing the development at an inquiry in the Forest Hills Hotel, Frodsham, which started on Monday.

Mike Cooksley, chairman of tourism organisation Visit Chester and Cheshire and involved in the development and management of the Weaver Valley, gave evidence for SAW.

He said: "Regional parks should be protected, developed and enjoyed by both visitors and residents.

"The countryside of Cheshire is epitomised by this site and is seen by many as the antidote to urbanisation and relief from city life."

About £1.6m has already been granted to help plan the regeneration of the site and plans are in place to build wetland and wildfowl reserve in the valley.

Mr Cooksley added: "Frodsham is beginning to be branded "The Walking Town" and is the starting point of the Sandstone Trail and The Weaver Way, a route stretching the length of the Weaver Valley, used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

"The turbines would dominate what is a pleasant open and unspoilt countryside and irrevocably change its character. "There seems little point in trying to save the environment when by the very act of allowing an inappropriate development of this kind we destroy the very environment that we seek to save."

The inquiry runs from 9.30am-to-5pm at The Forest Hills Hotel, Frodsham, and until Wednesday, August 27 and a decision is expected in October.