Paragliders have been left deflated by news they have been banned from flying over the Preseli mountains.

Following a closed meeting held in Newport on Sunday, a decision was made to ban paragliding over the common land.

Graziers claim the paragliders disturb sheep and frighten them down from the higher areas of the common, and horse riders say it is dangerous to venture onto the land when they paragliders flying.

Local paragliders say they were hoping to reach a compromise over the issue, and gained support from all over the UK, with a petition attracting 440 signatures and more than 850 people joining a Facebook group.

Nick Bamber, of Pembrokeshire Paragliding, said: “It’s shocking and a disgrace. It’s a terrible thing for the county.

“This is an environmentally friendly, sustainable tourism business which brings tens of thousands of pounds into Pembrokeshire each year.”

Mr Bamber said evidence had been collected which showed the sport having minimal impact on animals on the mountain.

He said only small numbers were taken out at a time, and flight images provided positive publicity for the county.

He added that his business could suffer, as he is now faced with a four hour trip to a site.

Carolyn Morgan, who runs Crosswell Horse Agency and regularly takes rides on the Preselis, welcomed the decision.

She said: “The paragliders could be lethal to horses. If I’m up there with a trek it could be a dangerous situation. A lot of riders don’t go up there when they see them.

“It’s not a good combination. They just do not mix.”

She added: “I’m delighted at the decision. I can now take rides up there without the fear they will be there.”

A National Park Authority spokesman said: “Paragliding activity carried out to date in the Preseli Hills has been undertaken without permission and paragliding is specifically restricted under the Countryside Rights of Way Act.

“As a result we kindly request that paragliders respect the landowners’ position in seeking to protect the sensitive conservation nature of the site, as a Special Site of Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation.

“There are alternative areas within the National Park where paragliding is permitted.”