PARISH COUNCIL - Vice-chairman John Middle was in the chair at the monthly meeting of Ewyas Harold Group Parish Council at the Memorial Hall on June 6. Minutes of the annual meeting and the last ordinary meeting were approved. Councillor Elizabeth Overstall had prepared a comprehensive report on the Social Inclusion Strategy, copies of which would be circulated later. It was reported several acts of vandalism had taken place on the Recreation Ground. The damage had been reported to the police and several people had been questioned. Members resolved to seek the public's help in reporting any acts of vandalism. Mr S Duggan and Mr A Buchanan were thanked for pressure cleaning the play area. The clerk suggested a formal letting policy be worked out for use of the pavilion. Councillor Jean Addis raised concerns about the broken fence around the pumping station at Elm Dale, about sewage running via a ditch into the River Dore, and a water leak at the entrance to Elm Dale Estate.

It was agreed to ask a speaker from the Marches Housing Association to address the next meeting on the subject of Affordable Housing. The clerk's financial report was approved. A proposal for car parking arrangements on the Recreation Ground during the forthcoming Millennium concert was also cleared with the organisers. Councillor Elizabeth Overstall reported on the progress of the Millennium Photographic Exhibition on August 3-6. Many old photographs were being sent in and other subjects were needed. Volunteers to act as stewards during the event were also needed.

Members heard that a meeting had taken place with Herefordshire Council bridge engineers, who promised a permanent footway over the Prill road bridge. A road closure period of three weeks would occur during August. Road markings on Castle Bridge might be altered when the bridge railings were changed for more attractive ones. An attempt would be made to harmonise all the railings and tenders were being sought for painting the railings in front of the shop and by the Dog Inn. Hereford shire Council was seeking to appoint a contractor to clear rights of way. The clerk would write suggesting that the old hill road to Rowlestone might be cleared under this scheme as it was much used by walkers. Councillor Bill Preece reported that all the drains on the Dulas Road were to be cleared by Herefordshire Council to alleviate flooding problems. He also reported on a meeting of the Olchon Development Group he had attended. Its name would be changed to Olchon Community Group. The next meeting of the parish council would be on Tuesday, July 4.