A BUDDHIST-based meditation movement is thinking big to boost its Herefordshire base.

The Vipassana Trust has applied to expand the pioneering residential retreat at Pencoyd, known as Dhamma Dipa - or Island of Truth.

The trust teaches meditation techniques based on Buddhist scripture. But it is not a religion, nor it is about 'seeking converts'.

With courses proving popular, Dhamma Dipa needs a new look. The application to planners includes provision for an enlarged meditation centre. Vipassana is taken from the Pali language of ancient India and means 'to see'.

The trust, a worldwide movement, had no UK retreat until its arrival at Pencoyd in 1993.

Then, the former South Herefordshire District Council approved an application to convert a 20-acre Redhouse Farm site into classrooms, dormitories and other facilities.