A GROUP from Herefordshire is holding a five-day roadside vigil to highlight the presence of genetically-modified crops being trialed at ADAS Rosemaund, Preston Wynne.

The protest is being held near the Preston Wynne site from 4pm to 6pm and finishes on Friday.

Julia Goldsmith, who co-ordinates the Herefordshire GM Free Register, said the vigil was being held to draw attention to the fact that GM crops were being grown in the county.

The vigil would provide the public with information about what was going on 'in their backyard'. "The people question the validity and safety of GM crop trials in the open," she said.

Julia said that a poll carried out in Hereford town centre showed that more than 80 per cent of those questioned said they were concerned about the effects of GM crops on the environment.

There had been no public consultation over the location of the site, she said. As part of a GM month of action, similar vigils are taking place in Worcestershire. Julia can supply details about the vigils and GM issues and can be contacted on 01432 277424.

The group will also be gathering outside Worcester Crown Court at the beginning of next week.

The trial is due to take place there of Jim Ridout and Barbara Charvet, both from Herefordshire, who face charges of causing criminal damage to GM crops at Preston Wynne.