There were over 100 entries for this year’s Friends of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park literary competition. First introduced to celebrate the 50th anniversary of large parts of the magnificent Pembrokeshire landscape gaining National Park status, the competition is continually gaining in popularity.

Said the chair of the Friends of the Park, Peter Heard: “The standard of the entries was exceptional and everyone was pleased to see that entries continue to be submitted by children from as far afield as Yorkshire. Obviously they enjoy holidays in our National Park.

“Young people were asked to submit a piece of poetry or prose inspired by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park - its landscape, fauna, flora or cultural heritage, with a view to promoting a better understanding amongst the younger generation of what is so special about the National Park.”

He had a special word of thanks for the teaching staff that had given of their time and encouraged young people’s involvement.

The prize-winners were: Primary Age Group: 1st prize of £60 to Lloyd Smith from Spittal VC School for his entry entitled ‘Pembrokeshire’; 2nd prize of £40 to Abi Thomas from St. Mary’s RC School, Pembroke Dock (Pembrokeshire Coast Path); and 3rd prize to Seren Lewis, of Ysgol Brynconin, Llandissilio, for her entry entitled The Colours of Habitats in the National Park.

A Highly Commended prize of £10 went to home educated Emma Caroe from Sheffield for her entry The Secrets of Gors Fawr. A Commended award of £5 went to Libby Rands from Ysgol Bro Gwaun for her entry entitled Pembrokeshire Paradise.

The following schools received special Certificates on Commendation: Hook CP School; Ysgol Brynconin, Llandissilio; Spittal VC. School; St. Mary’s RC School, Pembroke Dock; Roch Community School; and Ysgol Bro Gwaun, Fishguard.