The Ironman event has once again been praised by councillors in Tenby, especially for the way that safety is prioritised for competitors and spectators alike.

Speaking at Tuesday night’s meeting of the town council, The Mayor, Clr. Mrs. Sue Lane, who was on the finishing line to hand out medals to the Ironman finishers, said that once again, it had been a ‘fantastic event’ for the town.

“I’d like to thank the organisers of Ironman, the marshals, Pembrokeshire County Council and also the local people who supported.

“It does put a lot of people out and effect them, but on the whole, it is a fantastic event for the area.

“Well done to all of those that took part and to those locals that competed,” she continued.

The town clerk Andrew Davies said that this year’s event saw the biggest crowds for the area, and that there would be a ‘wash up’ meeting soon with PCC’s street care manager Marc Owen to discuss the 2018 Ironman and to look into some of the crowd dynamics.

Deputy Mayor, Clr. Christine Brown said that the organisation from Ironman and PCC has been superb, with marshals handling road safety issues well and crossing roads made easier with well manned crossing points.

“It was pleasant and safer to watch. It raises the question as to why similar events that take place in the town and this area don’t appear as safe, with so many open roads allowed during these sporting events,” she stated.

“PCC need to talk to the organisers of these other events on the safety aspect for athletes and crowds, and these organisers need to question themselves too on the safety aspect,” added Clr. Mrs. Brown.

Meanwhile a letter of praise for the event and town written to the town council by an Ironman competitor was read out.

“I was very fortunate to participate and will never forget the experience - what a place, what incredible people!” wrote Dan Brooks.

“I was absolutely ‘blown away’ by the support. I am a grown man who was moved to tears (on several occasions) by the incredible passion and cheering.

“Thank you for sharing your beautiful town, and thank you for being such wonderful people. I will definitely be coming back, and will be recommending Tenby as a brilliant place.

“Pembrokeshire is definitely in my Top 10 places in the world, and your people are even higher,” he added.

Highlights of this year’s Ironman Wales event will be shown on Channel 4 tomorrow (Saturday) at 5.55 am.