Fears of a serious accident have led to a ban being brought in on harbour jumping and swimming in Saundersfoot.

Diving and jumping off the harbour walls and swimming in the harbour and its entrance have been a long-standing summer pastime for youngsters.

But now the Saundersfoot Harbour Commissioners have decided to call a halt to their actions.

This followed advice from their insurers and legal advisers, said executive officer Tony Davies, who warned that failure to comply with the ban will result in legal action.

He added: "The commissioners seek the co-operation of all members of the public to ensure that Saundersfoot continues to be a safe harbour for all users."

One of the commissioners, county Councillor Rosemary Hayes said the ban was "a reflection of the age we live in".

"We used to spend hours jumping off the harbour when we were children, so I am very sorry this ban has to happen, but I can certainly see the point," she said. "There are so many extra boats going in and out of the harbour that it increases the likelihood of an accident happening, especially as I know that some of the youngsters jump in in front of the boats.

"It is just not fair on the people on the boats, the harbourmaster or the Commissioners."