Sir,

I have been coming to Tenby for over 40 years on holidays and for 30 years, up until five years ago, on business.

But on my family holiday last week, we were absolutely horrified, amazed and heartbroken to see such a decline in matters regarding the running, wellbeing and amenities for holidaymakers.

Tenby has not merely stagnated, but gone backwards. The town now seems to cater for hen, stag and parties of youngsters, not the family or older generation.

I was so upset on seeing this downward turn that I conducted my own market research and asked no less than four coach parties and other individuals and families on their reactions.

The biggest setback and gripe was the failure of shops/cafes to remain open later than 5 pm or even 4.45 in some cases. Around 90 per cent of the shops and cafes closed. Some did stay open and had trade.

Many people I spoke to were completely baffled as to why in mid-June these businesses were so eager to close. They told me, as I have witnessed myself, that places like Weymouth, Scarborough, Whitby, Newquay, Bournemouth etc. have their shops open later.

These establishments should be providing a service to the holiday trade, not closing as early as possible. Where is the local Chamber of Commerce or Trade? There can be no lead coming from them.

The other question is do they and the townsfolk, police and council want holidaymakers?

Vandalism has seen the gardens at the Paragon closed to the public and holidaymakers - a sad reflection on the council and police - while large areas of Tenby are completely run down in appearance and a disgrace, like the Norton area.

The harbour area was to have been developed, but what has happened to those plans? Even fishing is banned from the walls.

The harbour areas of Tenby and Saundersfoot should be the crown jewels, but last week they were virtually deserted and run down.

Many of the people I spoke to would be very reluctant to come back as things stand. The holidaymakers deserve better service, help and amenities than are being provided at present.

Many local people, including councillors and police, need to address themselves to a town really stagnating in services provided to the visitors, who keep many of the locals in jobs and bread and butter!

B. Taylor,

Llanelli.