THE ASSEMBLY said yesterday it had no plans to promote sand and gravel extraction in the Usk Valley - as angry locals presented a petition against the scheme.

Environment Minister Sue Essex made the announcement at a meeting with residents in Usk yesterday.

The move follows months of campaigning by people concerned at a proposal to extract gravel and sand from the the area.

A petition started at the Usk show in September has gained 9,000 signatures.

Monmouth MP Huw Edwards, AM David Davies and Usk Mayor Brian Strong were all at the meeting to hear the reassurances from the minister.

* In the picture: Campaign organiser Alan Mickie, left, presents the petition to Wales environment minister Sue Essex.