A new trail capturing the life and times of one of Wales most prolific writers - Dylan Thomas - has been developed in West Wales offering visitors the chance to follow in the footsteps of this much-loved literary genius.

The Dylan Thomas trail takes visitors on a journey through the four Welsh counties of Swansea, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion in a bid to explore the life and times of the poet, best known for works such as Under Milk Wood and Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night.

From his birthplace in the city of Swansea, to the rolling hills of Carmarthenshire and the lush countryside of Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, the new trail combines a mix of sites all of which had a part to play in his colourful life.

There are 17 places of interest listed on the trail including 5 Cwmdonkin Drive and Cwmdonkin Park where Thomas was born and played as a child; the Dylan Thomas Centre which houses a unique exhibition, bookshop and restaurant; the Boathouse in Laugharne where Thomas wrote Under Milk Wood; and his resting place at St Martins Church.

Lucy VonWeber, principal tourism and marketing officer at the city and county of Swansea, current chairman of the group, explains: By working in partnership we have managed to create a complete Dylan Thomas experience giving the visitor a real insight into one of our most important literary figures. Whats more, from a regional perspective, it certainly adds another dimension to the areas attraction as a tourism destination.

As well as giving practical information such as phone-numbers and maps, the guide published to promote the new trail shows a variety of ways to travel the route either by car, bus, train or even by bike along the Celtic Trail.

For a copy of the guide, contact tourist information centres. Group travel organisers can get further advice and information from Tourism South and West Wales on Swansea (01792) 781212.

Pictured (left to right) are: Mary James, from Carmarthenshire County Council; Alan Turner, from Pembrokeshire County Council; and Lucy VonWeber, from the city and county of Swansea.