PARISH COUNCIL -- The June meeting of Ewyas Harold Group Parish Council was held in the memorial hall with vice-chairman, councillor John Middle in the chair. One member of the public was present. The minutes of the annual meeting and of the last ordinary meeting were approved and signed. With regards to the unfinished work on the block paving in the village centre, a letter had been received from Herefordshire Commercial Services demanding payment within 14 days. A report prepared by Cllr Middle on the unsatisfactory nature of the work done, was approved. The clerk would write to Graham Dunhill, director of environment, with copies to Herefordshire Commercial Services, the chief executive, and Terry James, leader of the council. Copies of Cllr Middle's report would be included. The organising committee of the recent Golden Jubilee celebrations would be thanked for the hard work they had put in to a very successful event.

GILBERT'S WOOD -- The lighting scheme would now go ahead. Councillor Mrs J Addis was authorised to contact local residents for some financial input. Cllr Margaret Tovey would carry out a similar duty to implement the lighting scheme at Olde Shoppe Lands.

VILLAGE PLAN -- Cllr Mrs E Overstall reported that the questionnaire had now been assessed, copies of the report would be given to councillors. Some members volunteered to join the village plan group for the next stage of the plan. The intent to develop a village plan has been registered with the Countryside Agency.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH -- A copy of the Home Office Manual and Training pack has been received. This will be discussed with PC Fiona Farrington when she attends the next council meeting. The manual to be circulated among members.

DARK LANE -- Cllr John Middle reported on a meeting with Mr J Maddy, but had not been able to persuade him that top dressing of the road was not sufficient. Letters would be sent to the owners of hedges along this road requesting them to trim hedges back.

LOCAL SECURITY -- An increase in vandalism on the recreation ground was reported. The police would be asked to visit the family of the youth believed to be responsible.

FINANCIAL REPORT -- Presented by the clerk and payment of bills approved.

PLANNING APPLICATION -- Pontrilas Garden Centre - temporary living accommodation in two caravans was approved. It was agreed that any future attempt at renewal would be refused.

RECREATION GROUND -- The problem of mole control was discussed. It was agreed to consult the grass cutting contractor for a cost to undertake this work.

VILLAGE OF THE YEAR 2002 -- A leaflet would be circulated, highlighting the need to keep the village tidy. Members of Pontrilas and District Women's Institute would distribute the notice around the village. A letter had been received from Herefordshire Council outlining ways in which they could help parish councils to organise 'village clean ups'. Equipment could be provided and removal of rubbish arranged. Also official clean-up packs could be provided.

NEXT MEETING -- The next parish council meeting will be on Tuesday, July 2.