Sir, I read with growing interest the recent articles published by the 'Save Saundersfoot Coal Office and Garden' campaigners. As the County Councillor for Saundersfoot and the County Council appointed Harbour Commissioner, I am not in a position to comment on the proposals or options surrounding the Old Coal Office at the moment. I have been advised that I have a prejudicial interest and do not stay in the Community Council meetings when this topic is discussed. However, if the anonymous group are successful in their goal to save the Old Coal Office in a viable and sustainable manner, I will be the first to congratulate them. As a County Councillor, I am deemed to have thicker skin than others in the community and so expect to come under scrutiny and criticism; at the end of the day I also receive an allowance and try to carry out my duties to the best of my ability. I do struggle when I see my fellow Community Councillors being criticised, as they all volunteer to do the best they can for Saundersfoot. We don't always agree, but we all have the best interests of the village at heart. I would not ordinarily have written on this subject, but having read the latest article provided to the Tenby Observer by the 'Save Saundersfoot Coal Office and Gardens' group, I note they are now criticising the redevelopment of Saundersfoot, citing the Regency Hall, Coppet Hall, Cambrian Hotel, St. Brides Hotel and others, stating the village is in danger of losing its identity. I cannot understand this sideswipe at massive investment in Saundersfoot, how many other villages of our size could point to tens of millions of pounds worth of investment from both private and public sectors. Our village has completely fought against the tide of the recession and comes out the other side a much improved place. We are the envy of many in Pembrokeshire and Wales. Do the group really believe that residents and visitors want to live in, or visit rundown and faded seaside resorts and, believe me, there are many in the UK. If I recall, several years ago we were all devastated when a national newspaper referred to our village as that scruffy little town. Way off the mark anonymous campaigners, way off the mark.

Phil Baker, County Councillor, Saundersfoot Ward.