A PROJECT to restore a much-loved area of Broad Haven so that it can again be enjoyed by the whole community celebrated its official opening last week.

Last May, members of the community decided to work together to refurbish the boardwalk nature trail – a wooden walkway situated around the village’s slash pond – which had fallen into disrepair.

Just over a year later, the walkway is now re-open to the public, meaning dog walkers, youth groups, wildlife lovers and local schoolchildren can enjoy the area in safety.

Brothers Roger and Raymond Raymond, who own the land, had the honour of cutting the ribbon to the walkway on Friday, August 14, and paid tribute to the hard work of volunteers.

Roger Raymond said the project had demonstrated the enviable community spirit in the village, and wished the group every success for the next stage, which will be to replace the final section of wooden planking.

Linda Reohorn, who has helped lead the project, said she was incredibly proud to see how their work had paid off.

“There isn’t one member who hasn’t brought something to the project,” she said.

“It’s been an amazing experience and really brought the village together.

“It’s given everyone a warm fuzzy feeling, and we have made friendships that will last a lifetime.”

So far, the project has cost more than £70,000, with the biggest boost coming from the SITA Trust’s community fund, which granted £58,000, enabling the group to replace more than 200 metres of the boardwalk.

Donations totalling £10,000 meant a large section of hand railing could be replaced – all of which was done by volunteers – so that visitors can enjoy the view in safety.

New signage, information boards and a nature trail quiz mean that the boardwalk can also be used as a learning resource for schoolchildren, as well as opening up the area to tourists and nature lovers.

For more information, or to help out in the next stage of the project, visit www.supporttheboardwalk.co.uk.