AN EVENTS space created as part of a Pembrokeshire marine destination will host its inaugural event next week.

The completion of the 20,000 square foot National Events Deck marks the start of the second phase of the ongoing multi-million regeneration at Saundersfoot Harbour.

The deck can accommodate up to 4,000 people, with the space including an amphitheatre that can be used for local and national-scale events, ranging from theatrical and musical performances to food and craft festivals.

It is also to feature a fenced crabbing area and - subject to planning permission - a building in the shape of a Tall Ship, which will house a visitor and education centre, amongst other facilities.

The ultimate aim of the scheme is to enable Saundersfoot to be 'the marine gateway to Wales', with a Marine Centre of Excellence on the harbour and a community hub and start-up businesses at the Coal Office and Ocean Square.

On Saturday September 15, there will be Proms on the Harbour Deck, on the theme Night at the Movies, with the 80-piece orchestra, the Cardiff Philharmonic. The seated event starts at 7pm and tickets, at £17.50, are available from the harbour office.

A £400,000 bridging loan from HSBC UK has been received by Saundersfoot Harbour towards the project.

Said the harbour's commercial manager, Bradley Davies: "We've seen a huge increase in footfall to the area since the completion of the project's first phase, so we look forward to bringing something completely new and different to visitors and locals alike.

"HSBC UK has been hugely helpful in making sure we had the right finance in place to fit our needs."

Added Phil Sergeant, HSBC UK's area director for South Wales: "HSBC is delighted to be a part of the regeneration of Saundersfoot Harbour and understands its importance for tourism in the area."