A NEW branch of the Green Party is being launched in the New Forest next month. The group will examine the future of nuclear power in the UK at their first meeting in Ringwood on March 3.

Environmentalists will discuss possible solutions to tackle the increasing demand for fossil fuels.

The New Forest West Green Party candidate Janet Richards, is launching the branch after she received nearly 2,000 votes at last May's general election. She believes her success at the polls has led to increasing interest in the Green Party among residents.

The first meeting will be open to the public.

Caroline Lucas, Green Party MEP for the south-east, will address the meeting at Greyfriars Community Centre at 7.30pm.

She said: "With increasing demand for oil and gas, households are being landed with huge bills just to keep warm. This situation is likely to get worse as oil supplies become scarcer, so it is essential that we reduce our use of fossil fuels and move to alternative energy sources."

For more details, phone Janet Richards on 01725 519267.