THE community of Kilgetty and Begelly has been chosen as the only one in Pembrokeshire to benefit from a seven-year rural development programme.

Entitled Rural Futures, it has been made possible by Big Lottery funding, and launches with My Square Mile events this weekend.

Tomorrow (Thursday), there will be a talk on protecting local place names, while on Friday and Saturday, there will be a drop-in event to explore residents' views on the area and its future.

My Square Mile has been organised by a steering group made up from local organisations and residents from the community.

It will be managed by the Rural Futures co-ordinator, Victoria Bancroft, aided by Pip Lewis of Space to Create.

Kilgetty Community Centre will be the venue for the drop-in days on Friday and Saturday between 10am and 4pm.

Various organisations based within the community will be on hand to gather comments and feedback, and other groups will be showcasing their activities and encouraging people to participate.

Said local county councillor, David Pugh: "I am delighted with the way in which the steering group have brought together this first event in the Rural Futures programme.

"It offers the community a real chance to see how their community has developed over the years and to participate in planning for the future.

"I truly hope that all the local residents will drop in for a look at the exhibition and participate in shaping the future.

"It is the start of what could be a fantastic opportunity to see some real improvements in the villages. Who knows what ideas might come forward with the potential for future Big Lottery funding?"

The place names presentation will be given at the community centre by Dr James January McCann at 7pm tomorrow (Thursday).

He will explore the historic place names of Kilgetty, Begelly and surroundings, giving a fascinating insight into local history.