In the latest high-profile objection to the proposed mega-farm at Foston, Derbyshire several members of the cast of Emmerdale have registered their disapproval to the plans. Midlands Pig Producers (MPP) plans to build a pig farm capable of housing up to 25,000 animals, which would spend the entire day indoors year-round, near a prison in Derbyshire.

The outspoken opposition to the plans by several of the Emmerdale cast comes as opponents to the proposals announced they plan to march through Derby on Saturday 13th August in protest against the controversial mega-farm. The march is expected to attract hundreds of sympathisers.

Lucy Pargeter, one of the actors involved in the protest, who used to raise pigs using "the type of farming this country is proud of" commented, "It is disgusting to think that anybody would consider giving these plans the go ahead."

Local protesters have objected to the plans on the basis that, should the plans be given the green light, the mega-farm would have a detrimental effect on the local environment, increase vehicle traffic as up to 1,000 animals would be transported for slaughter in a day, and emit 'foul smells.' The Environment Agency also filed a complaint that the proposal risks polluting the water supply.

MMP have denied claims that the unit would have poor animal welfare standards and necessitate use of large quantities of antibiotics. The group has promised to address what it describes as "misinformation" circling about the proposals over the coming weeks.

Nevertheless, the number of objections against the plans is thought to have risen to 13,000.