A LARGE response from the public has delayed a report on housing needs in Bishop's Frome.

Herefordshire Council says the report will not be ready for at least three weeks as comments from the public are evaluated.

Almost half the households in the village filled up a questionnaire sent out in March. In general, researchers can hope for a response from around 40 per cent.

The aim of the study is to provide a clearer picture of housing needs, in particular the issue of affordable housing

Isobel Gibson, the county's principal research officer, said: "The better the response, the more time it takes to compile a report.

"I think the response was so good because housing is such a big issue these days.

"Houses here now cost above the national average and wages in Herefordshire are 20 per cent below the national average wage. Council houses have been lost through the right to buy, which has hit rural areas."

Another reason for the report's delay was another good response to a housing needs survey by residents of Leominster.

When the Bishop's Frome survey is complete and published, a copy will be sent to the parish council.