Solar panels covering the equivalent of about six football pitches could be built on a farmer's field.

Lightsource Renewable Energy Limited plans to build a solar farm on land at Drapers Farm, east of Milch Hill Lane in Great Leighs.

The site covers 15.5 hectares and the 24,480 ground level solar panels will cover nearly 4.6 hectares, with the gaps between rows of panels and fencing taking up the rest of the area.

Lightsource, which has yet to submit a planning application, said it would generate enough electricity to power nearly 1,650 typical households in the local area.