Security has been stepped up at Pembrokeshire's oil refineries, ferry terminals and service bases following the terrorist attacks in New York.

Although Pembrokeshire is an unlikely target in itself, the local police force and transport police, in line with national policy, are on high alert.

At the Texaco and Elf refineries and Petroplus, employees and visitors have been aware of even tighter measures.

The Texaco Refinery is the largest American-owned refinery in Britain, and a company spokesman said: 'With the refinery unit and facilities we have, there is always strict security in place for obvious reasons. There has been heightened awareness since September 11th, and very stringent security plans have been put in place covering all access to the refinery from land and sea.'

Shipping is another concern and Ted Sangster, Milford Haven Port Authority general manager, said his staff were working to the requirements of customer oil companies.

'Appropriate security is also in place at Pembroke Port and the ferry terminal. We provide security to the requirements of Irish Ferries and the Government. Our staff work closely with the police in the assessment of security levels that are indicated to us. They are fully trained in this.'

Mr Sangster also pointed out: 'We have to ensure that ships come into the Haven correctly certificated and that people have the correct qualifications to drive and service the vessels. This information is available and there is an opportunity for security people to follow through, if necessary.'