The work carried out protecting the waters off Pembrokeshire has been seen at first hand by Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies.

Mr Davies spent a day with the Fishery Protection Vessel team and saw them at work monitoring and inspecting catches off the County.

"We boarded The Cranogwen which is based in Milford Haven and motored out to St Brides Bay," said Mr Davies.

After donning safety equipment and a dry suit, Mr Davies joined the protection officers and boarded a fishing boat.

"I watched as they inspected the catch and pots. It was a fascinating insight into the work carried out by the team," said Mr Davies.

"It is more important than ever that we protect our fisheries and ensure they are viable for the future."

The Cranogwen is the protection vessel of the South Wales Sea Fisheries Committee and patrols the sea up to six miles out from Cardigan to Cardiff – an area of 4,685 square kilometres.

"It is a big area," said Master Bill Watson. "We check where the boats are fishing, make sure they are catching what they are allowed to and that the size of their catch is correct."

Mr Davies added: "It was a beautiful day when I joined the team but they are out there all year round in all weathers. Without their presence the sea bed would be a free for all."