CRADLEY'S only playgroup is under threat of closure and has asked the parish council for money.

At a meeting on Tuesday, attended by three mothers on the Cradley Pre-School Playgroup committee, the council was keen to offer support.

However, it wants to see a budget and forecast for the next year before deciding how much money to give.

Coun John Edgar said: "I think they do an admirable job and have done for many years. We should do everything we can to support them."

Money is needed to renew a £500 insurance premium the group must pay in March.

Based at Cradley Scout Hut, the group looks after 16 children, employs three people and has been running since 1976.

However, it nearly folded in the summer because it lacked a strong management committee and had financial problems.

With help from villagers, residents a new committee was formed but more money is needed for the group to continue.

The parish council agreed to write to the group requesting a budget and forecast and to discuss the matter again next month.

n The parish council also agreed to sign a contract with Herefordshire Council, paving the way for a Village Artmarkers project in Cradley.

Yorkshire artist Jackie Hunt will create a piece of artwork, with input from the local community.

Herefordshire Council will pay her £3,900 in expenses and the same for materials.

The parish council will help raise promote the scheme and contribute £400. It will own the finished artwork and erect a suitable plaque.

The project will run from September this year to September 2006.

n Fears that a new kerb by Cradley Primary School could cause accidents were also discussed.

Coun Michael Allfrey said it was jutting into the road.

The council agreed to write to Herefordshire Council's highways department and ask if the kerb could be painted white with reflectors put on it.