Following concerns raised about the use of catapults to harm wildlife at Pembroke, the town’s mayor Jonathan Grimes and County Councillor Aaron Carey joined Pembroke Dock and Pembroke Police on September 3 to speak directly with residents.

“It was a really useful opportunity to listen to people’s concerns, discuss the issues affecting them and, importantly, hear about some of the other matters they would like to see addressed,” said Cllr Grimes.

“Working together with residents and the police is key to tackling local problems and helping make our communities safer and stronger.

“A big thank you to everyone who took the time to speak with us.”

Cllr Carey added: “Following on from concerns from residents of Howells Close about the pigeons nesting under the solar panels. I joined ATEB to go door to door to see the extent of the problem. There are hundreds of pigeons nesting there causing a huge mess and health issues and there have also been quite a lot of dead ones found around the street.

“We were joined Jonathan Grimes… and the neighbourhood policing team on one of their regular meet the street sessions to also see what other concerns people have got.

“I've now had it confirmed that the board of directors at ATEB are considering the options to deal with the pigeon issue.”

Earlier this summer, the discovery of deceased wildlife at the millpond led to speculation that the levels of algae were causing them to die, but the town council reassured them that this was not the cause.

“For the past seven years, Pembroke Town Council has employed Aqua Clear to help manage algae growth and control the spread of reeds within the pond. This ongoing work has been highly successful, with algae levels reducing by approximately 45 per cent since the programme began. The pond's water quality continues to be monitored and remains in good condition.”

Following reports from residents, council representatives visited the pond and retrieved some of the deceased wildlife. On examination, it emerged that around five different animals had suffered injuries consistent with being intentionally targeted using a catapult.

“This is an extremely distressing and cruel act against wildlife,” said the town council in July. “The matter has been reported to the Wildlife Crime Officers, who are aware of the incident and will be investigating.”

“Pembroke Town Council strongly condemns any form of cruelty towards wildlife and would encourage anyone who witnesses this type of behaviour, or has any information that may assist enquiries, to report it immediately. Information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”