Plans for five massive wind turbines in north Cornwall have been rejected.

Planners decided by 17 votes to nine to refuse permission for the wind farm near the A39 at Otterham.

They said the 71-metre high turbines, which would have been among the tallest in the UK, would damage the natural beauty of the area.

About 50 objectors, who crowded the public gallery of the North Cornwall Council chamber in Camelford, were delighted with the outcome.

I think they have made a mistake because we do need renewable energy Applicant John Harding

Caroline Jackson, Cornwall's MEP, said: "I'm very much in favour of renewable energy, but I'm very much against on-shore wind farms.

"I think this is an out-of-date application because government proposals in November on the future of wind power emphasised the important contribution of off-shore wind farms."

Horse breeder Jill Reynolds, of Penhale Farm, near the proposed site, said: "Horses are sensitive to new structures and because wind turbines can start up suddenly, we felt they could be a risk around the roads where the turbines were going to be."

John Harding, who proposed the turbines with Powergen, said: "Naturally I'm disappointed, but I think they have made a mistake because we do need renewable energy.

"Wind power is the one form of renewable energy that is available here."

He said he would be discussing with Powergen whether to appeal.