MP NEIL Carmichael has offered his ‘whole hearted’ backing to a campaign by residents opposing development on fields off Summer Street in Stroud.

Surveying work seen taking place on the 15.5 acre site – known locally as Baxters Field – has raised suspicions the field is being prepared for development. But upon hearing of the plans, Mr Carmichael said: "Just look at this view, how can you build on these fields overlooking the Slad Valley, which is one of the iconic vistas in Stroud."

He added that he is urging as many people as possible to attend a public meeting to discuss the future of the site at Stroud Town Council’s offices in London Road from 7.30pm on Monday, October 15.