Pembroke Castle was the venue chosen for the final AGM of the Pembrokeshire Tourism Federation last week.

"We felt it appropriate to hold our last meeting in one of our oldest and finest attractions," said chairman Virginia Lort Phillips, "and were delighted when the administrator and chairman of the Trust, Major and Mrs. Ivor Ramsden, offered their hospitality."

PTF was founded 24 years ago by John Lloyd who had the vision of an umbrella organisation at which all tourist associations and interested bodies could meet, discuss and try to resolve any difficulties confronting the tourism industry.

The Federation will now make way for a new body, Pembrokeshire Tourism, which will be set up in September as a company limited by guarantee.

"It is appropriate that, led by John Lloyd, now chairman of the Haverfordwest and St. Brides Bay Association, the Federation has been instrumental in spearheading this new organisation and we very much hope that all those involved in tourism will wish to be associated with it," said Virginia. "Tourism is now the most important industry in Pembrokeshire and it is vital that it should speak with one voice which will be recognised by all."

Virginia thanked Major and Mrs. Ramsden for hosting the meeting and all those who had been involved with the Federation over the years. Particular mention was made of TSWW who had provided the secretariat and ongoing advice about policy guidelines coming from WTB and NAW; past chairmen, and the National Park who had attended regularly with very helpful input.

It was agreed that all remaining funds in the Federation account should be transferred to Pembrokeshire Tourism as soon as was appropriate.

At the completion of business, the meeting adjourned to celebrate a new beginning for Pembrokeshire Tourism.