A Hereford vicar has urged the public to tell councillors why sex entertainment licenses should not be granted in the county.

The Rev Phil Williams made the statement as the elected members prepare to examine the current policy on allowing shops to sell hardcore pornographic material in Herefordshire.

A review into the council's zero tolerance approach to sex establishments has come about after adult entertainment businessman Mick Bushell announced plans to launch two stores in the county.

But the appearance of a prospective entrepreneur is no reason to change the three-year-old policy, according to the Holmer and Huntingdon vicar.

Mr Williams, who has written to the council objecting to the adult shops, said: "The Bible says sex is vital and a God given gift, but there is a certain context to enjoy it.

"The ideal way being in a loving and lifelong marriage relationship between two people of the opposite sex.

"I think it will be good for the council to hear the public's views before they make their decision about sex shops."

Mr Bushell also welcomed the public entering the debate and pointed to this happening before when he opened a shop in south Wales.

"I have a sex shop in Blackwood and before it opened there was a lot of consultation between residents," he said.

"Although not everyone agreed with it, most people respected freedom of choice and now it is a great success.

"I respect the Christian viewpoint but they need to understand that I don't want to open shops in the centre of town - I would rather have them properly set up on industrial estates."

The regulatory committee of Herefordshire Council will meet on Tuesday afternoon to decide whether to change the policy and allow adult entertainment stores.