Swag approached Mr di Stefano for help with their campaign

Moira Macdonald, of Skeabost and District Community Council, said a ballot of Edinbane residents last year found the majority back Amec's plans.

She was reacting to news that a group opposed to the development have asked lawyer Giovanni di Stefano for help.

Skye Wind Farm Action Group said Mr di Stefano is advising on their campaign.

Mrs Macdonald referred to a ballot held last July while passing comment on Swag's approach to the former Dundee FC director.

She said: "As the community council responsible for Edinbane we held a ballot of all local residents eligible to vote.

'Minority view'

"This was independently overseen to ensure fairness. The result of the ballot was a clear mandate for the community council to support the wind farm proposal.

"It is clear that there are people within the community who are ignoring the wishes of the majority and attempting to enforce their own minority view by any means possible."

The vote which was taken up by 92% of 169 people polled found 57% in favour and 30% against.

John Hodgson, of Swag, confirmed last week that Mr di Stefano was advising activists on their campaign.

Mr di Stefano lists serial killer Harold Shipman among previous clients.

Swag is opposed to Amec's plans to build a 27-turbine wind farm near Edinbane on Skye.