A look beyond the pebbles of the popular Pembrokeshire beach at Freshwater East reveals a committed conservation ethic in the local community.

A recent visit by Nerys Evans, Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales (Plaid Cymru), highlighted the fruits of the successful partnership between Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and community groups at Freshwater East.

National Park south area ranger Tim Jones works closely with the Freshwater East Reserve for Nature (FERN) volunteers, who regularly maintain The Burrows and wetland areas of Freshwater East, which are dedicated as a Local Nature Reserve.

Tim said: "FERN members are consulted prior to any project being undertaken and, along with local people, are the eyes and ears for the rangers; regularly reporting matters of concern, especially behaviour that could damage the nature reserve.

"They also arrange and lead monthly nature activities with the purpose of sharing and educating people about the delicate balance between managing honey pot areas like Freshwater East, where housing and nature can sit side by side and thrive if supported by effective conservation management and practical community involvement."

Nerys Evans was taken around the reserve and shown the recently constructed boardwalk with Park Authority chief executive Tegryn Jones and ranger Tim Jones.

She commented: "This nature reserve would not be so successful without the input of local groups.

"The dedication of 22 hectares of Access Land here last month also shows the trust the authority has in the current partnership to achieve the community aspirations for this unique reserve."