2014 has been an eventful year for the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, having endured some extraordinary weather and supported some exciting events.

The storms of January and February will remain long in the memory for the extensive damage they caused around the coast and county as a whole.

The damage to roads grabbed many of the headlines, but the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail, which the authority maintains with funding from Natural Resources Wales, also suffered badly as the result of the severe storms and high tides.

Extensive repairs had to be made to ensure the Path and associated routes, which are vital to the local economy, were repaired in time for the tourist season.

Despite the stormy start to the year, many local businesses reported another successful summer season, building on the success of last year.

The authority's commitment to investing in the local economy was demonstrated once again, with the completion of the Origins project at Castell Henllys Iron Age Village. The exciting developments included the rebranding of the attraction and the addition of a new Visitor Centre and Café.

Visitors and locals alike were also drawn to Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre in St. Davids, which was privileged to host the Llareggub: Peter Blake illustrates Dylan Thomas's Under Milk Wood exhibition from May to September as part of the centenary celebrations of Dylan Thomas' birth.

During the year, the authority supported events including the Tour of Pembrokeshire Cyclo Sportive and Tenby's own Ironman Wales competition, which once again entertained many local people and attracted thousands more visitors to the area from far and wide.

In the face of further budget cuts, the authority asked the public for their views on the future priorities of the National Park. The public consultation received a very positive response from local residents and visitors alike. I'd like to thank everyone who contributed as this information will prove invaluable as the authority prepares to make difficult budget decisions in the months to come.

A Review of the Designated Landscapes of Wales was recently launched by the Welsh Government. The authority submitted evidence to the review panel as part of the first phase of this review, which is now complete. The second phase will include a look at the governance of National Park Authorities.

There is no question that 2015 will be a challenging year, with all public organisations having to tighten their budgets once again. This challenge presents the authority with opportunities to explore further joint working with partner bodies, including our fellow Welsh National Park Authorities.

We are small public bodies sharing the same purposes: to protect and to increase awareness and understanding of Wales' precious landscapes, and we will continue to build on our proud history of working together.

I hope that you will take the opportunity to visit and explore more of your National Park in 2015 and experience the very best this special place has to offer.

On behalf of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority - members and staff - may I thank those groups and individuals who have supported us in our work and may I wish all readers of the Observer a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.