THE new chairman of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority was sworn in at the organisation's annual general meeting on Wednesday, June 24.

Richard Howells took over as chairman from Clr. Simon Hancock, while Clr. Tony Brinsden stepped in as vice-chairman.

Chief executive Nic Wheeler said: "We would like to extend our gratitude to Clr. Hancock for his dedication and invaluable support as chairman over the past three years.

"We are equally pleased to welcome Richard Howells as our new chairman. Like Clr. Hancock, Richard has given years of experience to the authority and we very much look forward to working closely with him during his term of office."

Chairman Mr. Howells said: "I'm delighted to take on the chairmanship. All local authorities are facing challenging times and I feel confident that the National Park Authority is well equipped to meet these challenges."

The chairmen of the Park Authority's committees were also elected, as follows:

Chairman and vice-chairman of development management committee: Clr. Michael Williams and Clr. Simon Hancock.

Chairman and vice-chairman of performance review committee: Tim Giles and Clr. Mike Evans.

Chairman and vice-chairman of personnel committee: Clr. Mike Evans and David Ellis.