Grass cutting contracts to maintain the county's cemeteries and verges have been awarded to five Powys based contractors, the council has said.

From April 1, the contractors will be responsible for grass cutting at the council’s 15 cemeteries as well as seven urban grass verge areas across the county.

One other contract has also been awarded to an Oswestry based firm.

The council says the contracts are in place for three years with an option to extend for another 12 months.

Cllr Phyl Davies, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to award our grounds maintenance contract to a number of Powys-based contractors.

“One of the aims for this Cabinet was to keep the Powys pound in Powys and this contract does exactly that, with over £200,000 a year going to local contractors to carry out grass cutting duties.

“These contractors will be providing an important service within our communities. I wish them all the best and look forward to developing a working relationship with the successful contractors over the next three years which will benefit our local communities.”