Park targets memorials (From Western Telegraph)

Park targets memorials

Just days after the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority courted controversy with its 'homes for locals' policy, it is at it again.

The authority may clamp down on the bereaved by rethinking its policy on commemorative plaques and benches on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Ninety-five memorial seats and plaques are dotted along the path, but walkers say they have no place on this unspoilt landscape.

They argue that they are only meaningful to a limited number of people and that they are making their walks a melancholic experience. The authoritys access officer Anthony Richards is now urging a rethink to protect the character of the coast.

He wants all memorial benches limited to harbours, car parks and the outskirts of towns and villages.

The bereaved could also be encouraged to sponsor other National Park projects.

But his proposal has already upset the public including Stan Baker, of Sarel, Lampeter Velfrey.

I have never heard such nonsense in all my life, he says. Before we know it we will have to start removing headstones from graveyards. I cant see any sense in this argument, it is the minority dictating to the majority.

Mr Richards' recommendation will be considered by the National Park Committee today (Wednesday).