Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority had double cause for celebration at the recent Shwmae Sir Benfro Awards, sponsoring one award, while a member of its staff was shortlisted for another.

Dr. Dyfed Elis-Gruffydd scooped the National Park Authority award, which acknowledged an individual’s contribution in using Welsh to promote appreciation of Pembrokeshire’s culture, heritage and environment.

National Park Authority chief executive Tegryn Jones said: “Dyfed Elis-Gruffydd’s contribution has been significant and varied over many years.

“He has been an inspirational educator, author, editor of books, tour leader and his contribution to our environmental and cultural heritage has been invaluable.”

The other nominees for the award were Alun Young Davies and Wynmor Owen.

Alun has been the secretary of Cymdeithas Gychod Afon Nyfer a Harbwr Trefdraeth for around 15 years and has ensured that the Welsh language plays a prominent role in the running of the organisation.

Artist and sculptor Wynmor Owen was nominated for his unique contribution to the art world, which links together the relationship between our cultural and environmental heritage.

National Park Authority discovery ranger Craig Stringer was shortlisted for the Learning Pembrokeshire award for an individual who has made the greatest effort to learn the language and uses it regularly in the workplace and beyond.

Craig has been learning Welsh at evening classes for three years. He endeavours to use Welsh with the groups of children and adults he encounters in his work. He has also taken a vital first step to speak Welsh with his co-workers, the public and school groups.