The anniversary of the birthday of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the famous founder of Neyland was celebrated in some style in the town.

2006 is the bicentenary of Brunel's birth and to celebrate this auspicious occasion, and to launch the celebrations that are being planned throughout the year in Neyland, there was a visit from Brunel himself .... in the form of local actor and Pembrokeshire College lecturer Simon Haslam.

He was welcomed to the town by Mayor of Neyland, Cllr Maureen Molyneux, and members of the Brunel Association.

Simon will be taking on the persona of Brunel for many of the special Brunel-themed events being planned.

There will be a Brunel hat competition, workshops with a professional artist to create a piece of artwork for Brunel Quay, and Brunel exhibitions and talks. Neyland carnival will have a Brunel theme.

The focal point of the celebrations is between September 14th and 16th, with lots of fun family activities, including watersports on Saturday 16th, followed by a spectacular finale.

If you would like to know how you can join in the celebrations, look out for the Brunel 2006 leaflets and visit the website www.brunel2006.info which will be launched soon, or contact the Experience Pembrokeshire's Waterway office on 01646 682972 or the Brunel Association by phoning Anita Willams on 01646 600455.