IT could be out of the chip pan and into the car for used cooking oil if plans for a biodiesel plant at Bransford get the go-ahead.

Keith Falconer wants to make biodiesel in a converted propagation unit at Bransford Garden Plants and is appealing for restaurants and takeaways interested in donating cooking oil to contact him.

The fuel would initially be used to power tractors and heating at the garden centre, but Mr Falconer also plans to start a biodiesel club for drivers interested in using it in their cars.

"We're running out of oil and climate change has to be controlled," he said. "Biodiesel is a good way of doing it.

"I'm a bit idealistic, I want to continue to drive but I don't want to be guilty about killing the planet."

It is hoped the project could be up and running by the end of April, as Mr Falconer plans to buy the equipment ready made.

Around 5,000 litres of biodiesel a month will be made, which is roughly the amount a large lorry would use monthly.

Used cooking oil would be filtered and, by means of a simple chemical reaction called esterification, convert it into biodiesel. It takes 80 per cent less carbon dioxide to produce biodiesel than petrol.

An environmentalist with a degree in ecology, Mr Falconer used to run West Malvern outdoor centre and hopes to open the plant to schools and students interested in learning about biodiesel.

He said biodiesel produced lower emissions than regular diesel, was better for car engines, completely biodegradable and less flammable than domestic heating oil.

Anyone interested in donating used cooking oil to Mr Falconer can contact him on 01886 830155.