Pembrokeshire will soon have its own radio station - after Haven FM beat off the competition to win the countys first commercial radio licence. The station will broadcast across the county 24 hours a day from early May next year.

Two bases will be established in Haverfordwest and Tenby and the radio station promises to be unique in its local focus.

At a press conference last week to announce the decision, managing director, Keri Jones, said: We have always felt very strongly that the station should be distinctly Pembrokeshire in its focus. We benefit from being so involved in the community, and feel our success relied on strong community links. We have fully agreed to keep in touch with our grass roots.

The station promises a mix of news, chat, information and popular music from the 60s to the present day. It has also emphasised its desire to develop local broadcasting talent and recruit local news and advertising staff.

From its beginnings in a small room in Bethany Chapel, Pembroke Dock, the station has developed a strong fan base.

Over its four trial broadcasts the station amassed over 2,000 letters of support for its bid - a big factor in the Radio Authoritys decision to award Haven FM the eight-year licence.

The decision allows for a vast improvement in the power of its transmission signal. The transmission, on 102 to 102.5 FM, from the massive Woodstock radio mast, will be rock solid throughout the county and beyond when it goes on air next year.

The board, made up of West Wales-based people, is chaired by Lord Parry of Neyland.

And Haven says its presentation team of Keri Jones, James Bruce, Gina Jones, Dan Mills, Rob James and B. B. Skone know the county better than any other presenters.

Everyone at Haven FM will share our passion for Pembrokeshire and help create a uniquely local radio station of which local people can be proud, said Keri Jones.

Radio licence success: A toast to the future for Haven FMs winning team. PICTURE: Western Telegraph.