Sir,

If last week's concerned whippet owner had had the courage to write their name, I would have reported them to the RSPCA. It was the owner, and not the organisers of the New Year Swim, who subjected their dog to a 'terrifying ordeal'. Taking the dog was, using the owners words, "unnecessary and ill thought."

The previous week's Tenby Observer stated that a firework would start the event, as it has for many years. The sound system at the swim is crystal clear and I heard the commentator say, on at least three occasions, that, following Nigel Owen's whistle, a firework would start the swim.

I walked my dog on North Beach in the morning and left my little Shih Tzu safe and sound in Tenby, before going to Saundersfoot. I have to congratulate the organisers on a brilliant day. There was a buzz in the village and so many happy faces. Well done Saundersfoot. You can be proud of yourselves.

Dai Colley,

Tenby.