THE Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority recently appointed its new chairman.

Clr. Mike James takes over the reins from Clr. J. A. (Tony) Brinsden, who has been chairman of the authority since 2011.

Clr. James was elected by members at the annual general meeting of the National Park Authority at its head office in Llanion Park, Pembroke Dock, on Wednesday, June 26.

Authority member Ted Sangster is the new vice-chairman, taking over the role previously held by Clr. James.

The outgoing chairman was thanked by member Clr. Michael Williams, who said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Clr. Brinsden for the work he has carried out during a difficult and challenging period for the authority. He has been a wonderful ambassador and an inspirational leader."

During his time as chairman, Clr. Brinsden represented the Park Authority on the executive committee of National Parks Wales and the UK Association of National Park Authorities. He was also a representative on the WLGA Council, as well as serving on the Environment Agency's South West Wales Area Environment Group.

Speaking after his election as chairman, Clr. James thanked members for electing him and said he looked forward to working with members and officers in his new role leading the authority.

Clr. James, who is from St. Dogmaels, joined the authority in 2010 and was elected vice-chairman of the National Park Authority in 2012.

At the meeting, Mrs. Gwyneth Haywood was re-elected chair of the development management committee, with Clr. Rob Lewis re-elected as vice-chair.