County solicitor Mark Layton will be Pembrokeshire’s new coroner.

Mr Layton, aged 47, is the founder of Haverfordwest solicitors Layton and Co. He is now employed at the firm as a consultant.

He was appointed deputy coroner in 2006 and will take over from Michael Howells, Wales’ longest serving coroner, when he retires on December 31st.

Mr Howells was appointed coroner for what was then the Pembrokeshire District of Dyfed in December 1980 and, when he finishes, he will have completed 29 years’ service.

Mr Howells, said: “I reached the age of 70 earlier this year and felt that it was an appropriate time for me to quit.”

During his term Mr Howells has presided over a number of high-profile inquests, including the Scoveston and Coast Path double murders and the Oakwood fall death.

Mr Layton takes up the post in the new year.

He said: “I’d like to pay tribute to Michael Howells for the service he has provided to the county.”

Mr Layton also said Mr Howells had left him with very big shoes to fill.