A WELCOME addition to the bookshelves of local walkers is sure to be a new guide to 'The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path'.

The handy pocket-sized book, which is bursting at the seams with all sorts of useful information, is the work of Dennis Kelsall, who has a weekly walking column in the Lancashire Evening Post and has written and illustrated many guides covering some of the country's most popular walking areas.

Pembrokeshire is obviously one such area, as its beautiful coastline boasts immense variety in both its scenery and natural life, and its exploration can be equally satisfying for serious walkers and those more inclined to potter.

'At any time of the year there is much to see as the continuing cycle of nature successively reveals its different moods and aspects,' explains the book, which also features a fine array of colourful photographs.

The Coast Path itself was officially opened by Wynford Vaughan Thomas in 1970, linking the village of Amroth on the south-eastern boundary of the county to St. Dogmaels at its north-eastern corner.

This guide is designed to assist in the planning of this 180-mile walk along cliff edge and amidst the unspoilt beauty of both the land and sea, as well as to provide a companion to point out some of the interesting features along the way.

An accommodation guide, distance charts and access and transport points provide additional information, together with an informative introduction (which includes the region's geology, history, flora and fauna, topography and weather conditions).

The long-distance walk is divided into 15 clear sections of between seven and 19 miles. However, the contorted nature of the coast creates many sections that can conveniently be walked on a day basis, and a separate chapter suggests some possibilities.

Dennis Kelsall's own association with the Pembrokeshire coast and countryside evolved from regular family camping holidays as a child, and in later life he found himself increasingly drawn to this beautiful corner of Britain.

Dennis has been walking the coast path for many years and regards the walk as one of the country's finest long-distance trails.

'The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path' is published by Cicerone Press, of Milnthorpe, Cumbria, and is priced £12.95.