BBC PRESENTER Jamie Owen will host a new event aimed at empowering disabled people in Pembrokeshire.

Organised by Pembrokeshire Access Group, the Big Access Talk will feature Q&A sessions with local decision makers, and will be a celebration of disability-friendly attractions across the county.

Supported by the Big Lottery Fund, the event will take place at Withybush Pavilion, in Haverfordwest, on Thursday, May 18,

Pembrokeshire Access Group, an independent charity that works to promote improved access to services and facilities for disabled people, has organised the event as part of their Community Voice – Planning Together Project.

The conference aims to empower disabled people to have their say on how services that affect them are designed and commissioned.

Speakers from the local authority, the health trust and other service providers from across the county, will talk about what they do, and how their services can be accessed.

The event will also showcase the first ever Big Access Awards.

Categories will include: most accessible cinema/theatre and most accessible cafe/coffee shop.

Each category is designed to highlight the most accessible Pembrokeshire businesses and amenities and reward their efforts to be inclusive.

Henry Langen, honourary president of Pembrokeshire Access Group, said: “This will be a chance for people to ask questions, receive answers and recognise Pembrokeshire businesses that go the extra mile.

"We'll also be using the event to launch our Accessible Pembrokeshire website, which we hope will be an essential resource for any disabled person living in, or visiting, our county.”

Jamie Owen added: “This is one of the most important conferences in the county this year.

"It is an unrivalled opportunity to shape how Pembrokeshire looks in the future.

"Every serious business will be present - it's an opportunity not to be missed.”

The event is free to attend, but booking is essential as lunch will be provided.

To register your interest in attending, and to nominate a local business that you think has gone the extra mile, visit www.bigaccesstalk.com

To request a nomination form, contact Pembrokeshire County Council on 01437 764551 or visit one of the council's five customer service centres.