It was a case of 'doom and bloom' for Tenby's future floral prospects this week, as it was revealed that Pembrokeshire County Council intend to cut the money spent on the gardens in the resort by a half.

The news will come as a blow to Tenby which claimed its 29th title and a Silver Gilt in the small country town section of the Wales in Bloom contest last year and also received recognition at the International Communities in Bloom awards held in Canada, achieving a '5 bloom' status.

The chair, of Tenby in Bloom and Mayor of the town, Clr. Mrs. Sue Lane, told the floral volunteer group at a meeting on Tuesday night, that it was the intention of Pembrokeshire County Council to cut the money spent on the gardens in the town by a half, meaning less manpower and lower maintenance to be carried out at many of the gardens, including the 'Welcome to Tenby' area.

"This news caused great concern, the first being the importance of keeping the 'Welcome to Tenby' area, which is the first impression people get of the town, in pristine condition, and it was felt that wild flowers there, as had been suggested, would not be appropriate," said Tenby in Bloom committee member, Clr. Mrs. Caroline Thomas.

"If the reputation of Tenby, as a floral resort, is to be kept, there will be a much greater need for help from within the community," she continued.

Some of the actions planned by the group include - a walkabout to see what things can be done by the volunteers; weeding to start in the evenings instead of Sundays (it is hoped that this will encourage more people to join in); bingo nights to raise money.

Clr. Mrs Lane said she would like to meet with local organisations to show the portfolio of past achievements by the town, whils some good news to come out of the meeting was that the Yorkshire Building society is to continue to sponsor the plants at the train station.

Anyone who would like to join in with the Tenby in Bloom volunteers, is asked to please contact the town council offices at the De Valence.

"Help is much needed, the more help, the more that can be achieved," added Clr. Mrs. Thomas.