AN EXPERIENCED fisherman, who has used his knowledge to help protect the seas around Pembrokeshire, has been presented with an award from 10 Downing Street.

John O'Connor from Martletwy was one of the recipients this year of a Points of Light certificate, awarded by the Prime Minister.

He was recognised for his work protecting marine habitats in Pembrokeshire.

Mr O'Connor, who has fished for over 50 years, has seen first-hand the damage caused to marine habitats and wildlife by fishing litter, which can take up to 600 years to decompose.

He has been a keen promoter of the Pembrokeshire Marine Code App, created by Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum with local developer Writemedia.

The app features codes of conduct, agreed access restrictions maps and wildlife facts for Pembrokeshire. 

The Points of Light award scheme aims to recognise people whose good deeds or volunteer work may otherwise go un-noticed.

He has now received his certificate from Simon Hart MP, who said: "I'm delighted to present John with token of the Prime Minister's gratitude for all his hard work.

Mr O'Connor works closely with the voluntary divers' group, Neptune's Army of Rubbish Cleaners, to produce information on the seabed and provide fishing tackle litter bins at popular angling locations.

The group's leader, Dave Kennard, was also a Points of Light recipient in June.