THREE Herefordshire villages have been revealed as potential sites that could release shale gas.

Eastnor, Much Marcle and Fownhope have all been identified by the Government as areas that could see the controversial fracking practice taking place.

Fracking, also known as hydraulic fracturing, involves pumping large volumes of water, sand and chemicals underground at high pressure to fracture the rock and release shale gas.

But the procedure has attracted criticism from some environmental groups which fear it will lead to earthquakes and pollution of water sources.

Councillor Russell B Hamilton, cabinet member for environment, housing and planning, said full planning permission would need to be obtained due to the depths required.

“While we cannot rule out receiving any fracking applications in the future, the available geological maps suggest there are many more lucrative sites identified elsewhere in Britain, which are likely to be explored first,” Coun Hamilton said.