Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority has launched its prestigious National Park Award competition for 2008. Nominations are being invited for the award scheme, which was first launched in 1985. It aims to mark the National Park Authority's gratitude to the people and organisations which carry out projects which support the Park's purposes. It also tries to ensure their efforts and caring attitude towards the Park environment receives greater public recognition. Park authority chairman Clr. Simon Hancock, who will be on the judging panel, said: "We look forward to receiving a range of applications in 2008 and also to the opportunity to celebrate and recognise the work of the many individuals, businesses and organisations which support Park purposes. "Those who make their homes and run their businesses here in Pembrokeshire are an integral part of what makes this Park and its communities so special. This award scheme gives the authority a chance to let them know how much we appreciate their contribution." The winner will receive a hand-carved slate plaque carrying the razorbill emblem of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This is being made by Richard and Fran Boultbee at the slate workshop at Llangolman, near Clunderwen. Judging will take place in four categories - conservation or enhancement of the built environment; conservation or enhancement of the rural environment; promotion of public enjoyment and understanding of the Park, and promotion of cultural conservation and socio-economic wellbeing of the local community. From these categories, an overall winner will be chosen and will automatically be included in a showcase event celebrating all winning entries from each National Park in Wales. The projects must be located within the National Park area and must have been completed between March 2005 and April 2008. Judging will be by the chairman and vice-chairman of the National Park Authority and two independent judges. A bilingual leaflet detailing the National Park Award 2008 is available from local libraries and from the National Park Authority at Llanion Park, Pembroke Dock (tel. 0845 345 7275). You can also download a form from the authority's website, http://www.pcnpa.org.uk">www.pcnpa.org.uk . The closing date for entries is June 13.
