Wheelchair users have the chance to explore the sands of Pembrokeshire this summer with the introduction of a new beach wheelchair service. Two of the all-terrain vehicles are available to hire free at Saundersfoot. The pilot project - believed to be the first in Wales - is the result of an initiative by Pembrokeshire County Council and the Pembrokeshire Access Group. If the pilot is successful, it is hoped to expand the scheme to other county beaches in the future. "The county council is always looking for new ways to improve access to our facilities and services," said county council cabinet member, Clr. Islwyn Howells, who helped launch the scheme on Saundersfoot beach. "Unfortunately, too often wheelchair users miss out on the best that Pembrokeshire can offer because of access problems. "These new wheelchairs will enable disabled people to explore the beach at Saundersfoot and, hopefully in later years, other beaches in the county." Henry Langen from Narberth - confined to a wheelchair for the past 10 years due to muscular dystrophy - said the new scheme would be a tremendous boon for disabled people. "It's the first time I've been able to go on Saundersfoot beach in 25 years," he said. "I'm sure it will prove very popular." The all-terrain wheelchairs are available to hire from Saundersfoot Tourism Information Centre (TIC) near the harbour. Staff at the TIC have been instructed on their use and are able to assist users. A short instruction leaflet is also issued to hirers. Although the wheelchairs - which cannot be taken into the water - are free to hire, a £20 deposit is required. The scheme is funded by the Pembrokeshire Access Group.