A new grant scheme aimed at developing Pembrokeshire's local fishing industry has been given the go ahead.

Pembrokeshire County Council applied for the Fisheries Small Grant Scheme as part of its role as lead body for the Cleddau to Coast Fishing Local Action Group (FLAG).

The scheme, which has now been approved, aims to increase the capacity of local fishing communities and business networks by attracting investment and new businesses into the area.

Pembrokeshire has one of the most active fishing industries in Wales and as part of the European Fisheries Fund Axis 4, which supports the development of fisheries areas, small projects within fishing communities throughout the county can now apply to the scheme for grants of up to £5,000.

As well as encouraging the development of the fishing industry itself, the scheme also aims to create new jobs outside the fisheries sector, train people for new trades, promote eco-tourism and the use of local produce, as well as introduce young people into the fishing industry.

Independent economic development company Menter a Busnes is responsible for promoting the Cleddau to Coast Fisheries Local Action Group and its team, led by Jon Parker, will be responsible for providing support to grant applicants.

For further information on The Fisheries Small Grant Scheme, contact Jon Parker on 07841869893 or email [email protected]">[email protected] or visit http://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/european">www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/european