A SPECTACULAR set of handmade mosaic panels now grace a flight of steps in Upper Solva – bearing testament not only to the skill of the artists and volunteers involved in their creation, but also the vitality of the local community.

The ‘Great Solva Steps Mosaic’ project was launched by the charity Solva Care which runs a programme of well-being activities for all age groups in the village.

Members of the community learnt about colour, shape and design, as well as developing the intricate skills involved in producing mosaics, in weekly classes with artists Maddie Janes and Penny Dafforn.

Having mastered the skills, they went on to create 19 decorative panels, with the overall design inspired by the beautiful colours and shapes of the land, sea and sky of Pembrokeshire.

The project was funded by the Allen Lane Foundation. Local fundraising and donations paid for the new railings and Pembrokeshire County Council re-tiled the steps.

Solva Care Trustee, and co-ordinator of the project, Sue Denman, said: “Everyone had a great time taking part. It added to the immense community spirit we already enjoy in Solva. We would like to thank the county council for joining the partnership that enabled us to complete the project from start to finish in just seven months.

“Mosaic art has taken off in a big way here and we are already planning our next venture.”

County Councillor Phil Baker, cabinet member for planning and infrastructure, said: “Our highways department were only too pleased to be able to help Solva Care with the re-creation of the steps – the mosaics panels are absolutely stunning.”