Tenby Town Council held its first official virtual meeting on Tuesday evening, its first since the start of March, due to the restrictions of the coronavirus pandemic.

The remote meeting was held over the internet with councillors logging on or joining in by telephone.

This was made possible due to the introduction of emergency legislation by Welsh Government that enables Councils to operate whilst at the same time observing social distancing rules.

Members of the public were also invited to join the meeting.

The meeting discussed a range of issues affecting Tenby and looked at support to vulnerable people, businesses, charities and communities.

It was also agreed at the meeting that the town council AGM will now be held on June 30, where the annual mayor-making ceremony will take place online.

Councillors agreed that there would be an opportunity to thank Clr. Tony Brown for his excellent work as Mayor and to make the transition to the new Council year.

The town council chose their new Mayor-elect back in February, with Clr. Mrs. Sam Skyrme-Blackhall elected to don the scarlet robes of office for the first time, and fly the flag for the town.

However with the pandemic hitting, and the country being placed into lockdown in March, the planned Mayor-making ceremony scheduled to take place on May 15 at the De Valence Pavilion was scrapped.

Speaking after Tuesday night’s meeting, mayor-elect Clr. Mrs. Skyrme-Blackhall said that she was ‘delighted’ that the meeting had been successful and that the meeting was able to focus on the important needs of Tenby people, jobs, business and charities, adding “Now is a time to bring Tenby together to deal with the challenges we face.”

The AGM of the Council will be held online and members of the public will be able to view it.

However, councillors recognised that it will be different and the usual civic function and celebrations will not be taking place.

Speaking during the meeting, Clr. Mrs. Skyrme-Blackhall said: “There is a lot to do in the town - to support local people, local business, local charities and local jobs.

“I don’t know what will happen as this crisis unfolds but I know this is no time for handbagging and gladragging.

“We need to work together to support our people and our town. That is our priority now.”