A SOLAR farm operator is seeking to meet local businesses to help develop the site near Alresford.

Beta Solar was recently granted permission to build one of Hampshire’s first solar farms, on farmland at Bishop’s Sutton. Building work starts this month.

The developers are keen to maximise the opportunity for local businesses and are hosting a “meet the buyer” afternoon in Alresford on January 7 at a venue to be confirmed.

They want to meet local businesses and individuals who are interested in supplying or working for the farm.

Register interest at aalvarezv@opde.net.

Mark Candlish, director of the developer Solafields, said: “There is not much British manufacturing involved, but we are keen to use British engineers, landscapers, groundsmen, security and telecoms.”

Solafields estimates the farm will create more than 100 jobs during construction and three or four maintenance-related part-time jobs during operation.