SOLVA Community Council has decided to increase its precept for the coming financial year.

The 2013/14 precept was £18,000, and this year it has been set at £20,500, representing an increase of £2,500.

Community councillors agreed in favour of a £5.61 rise in the council tax precept which means people will pay around an extra 11p per week for a Band D household.

The precept, which is the part of residents' council tax paid to the community council, covers the upkeep of Parc y Capel, the old cemetery at Whitchurch Churchyard as well as maintenance of the Lower Solva play park.

It also covers compiling and printing the monthly newsletter, public liability insurance and wages for the Clerk to the Council.

Jenny Davies, chairman of the Community Council, said: "There have been cost increases on things the community town council is responsible for. Council members are proactive in many areas ranging from new play equipment for the play park, the review of planning applications, provision of local education, care within the community, working with the police to combat anti-social behaviour and local dog wardens to help keep Solva clean.”

She added: "The councillors are not paid, they give their time freely. The council maintains relationships with Pembrokeshire County Council, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority and the National Trust. Furthermore, councillors make sure services in Solva are maintained."