A team of 12 youngsters managed to produce an animated film in just five hours at a free workshop held last Saturday in Milford Marina. This was part of a new programme organised by The Animation Academy in Pembrokeshire, and sponsored by Milford Haven Port Authority whose recent donation has bought laptops, webcams and other equipment to help expand after-school workshops.

The children, aged between seven and 13, designed characters to feature in a short music video, animating them and adding sound effects using digital software.

Greg David, of The Animation Academy, said: "It was great to see these kids using their natural talent for technology to create a film they can be really proud of."

For working parents, the academy can help keep children active and learning over the summer.

"With this summer's holiday being seven weeks long, we anticipate our workshops will help reduce the strain on working parents and give kids a fun way to learn skills and make new friends," said Greg.

"Adults are now asking us to set up animation classes for them too, which we're delighted about as it means children will be able to produce films with their parents."