ECO-HOMES in the Bridport area are opening their doors this weekend to showcase the ways in which they are saving energy and reducing their carbon footprint.

23 homes in the area will be participating in the Dorset Greener Homes event, taking place across two weekends - both Saturday, September 25 to Sunday, September 26 and Saturday, October 2 to Sunday, October 3.

These homes will join properties across Dorset in a county-wide event, organised by the Dorset Climate Action Network. More than 50 homes in total will be opening over the two weekends.

Some of these are new houses built with very high levels of insulation, heat pumps and ventilation systems, whilst others have been retrofitted with extra insulation, solar panels and better windows. Some are homes where the inhabitants have chosen to make lifestyle changes – such as growing their own vegetables, maintaining wildlife friendly gardens, using bicycles or electric cars, travelling less or reducing waste.

The open homes event is able to go ahead courtesy of a grant from Dorset Community Energy. All those involved are volunteers.

Each of these homes have specific opening times, and some require prior booking.

For a full list and details of all the homes, and to book in advance, visit www.dorset.greenopenhomes.net