Saundersfoot’s ‘Coastal Christmas’ events over the festive period and another record breaking charity swim for the village have been praised.

A ‘magical month’ of Christmas events for the whole family to enjoy throughout the festive season took place, co-ordinated by Saundersfoot Chamber for Tourism along with the Community Council, which as well as the festive lights switch-on, included a Lantern parade, Christmas Panto by Saundersfoot Footlights, Saundersfoot School pupils singing, and Christmas cabin market stalls around the harbour decking area. A Senior Citizens Christmas Party was also held at the Regency Hall.

The village also saw in 2023 with a record 2067 swimmers braving the icy waters and thousands of spectators turning out for the 37th annual charitable Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim.

“It was fantastic to see the village switch on their Christmas lights with the highlight being the main tree,” said Cllr Chris Williams, Saundersfoot's South ward county councillor.

“There was also a new ‘Welcome to Saundersfoot’ sign and it was lovely having the school singing carols in the heart of the village.

“Our village tree always looks amazing and to see the lights around the village gets you into the Christmas spirit. The Plaza along with the cabins made for a lovely Christmas atmosphere. Well done to all those involved and great to see a buzz around the village during the switch on.

“It was a privilege to attend the Senior Citizens Christmas Party at the Regency Hall in December. The weather was particularly cold which did result in a few not being able to attend, but there was still a good turnout, and everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves.

“I would like to thank Sue and Emma at the Regency, the Lions and the Community Council for their support, Butch for entertaining and also Matt and Claire from the Qube catering who provided the excellent food.

“A point I would like to raise would be to be more inclusive in the future and expand the boundaries to include all Saundersfoot residents, as the Regency Hall and the caterers from the Qube can certainly cope with the extra numbers,” he continued.

The Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim was, once again, a fantastic spectacle. The event shows Saundersfoot at its very best with everyone working together.

“The Health and Safety group deemed it the ‘smoothest’ swim so far. I would like to thank personally the dedicated volunteers/stewards, and sponsors who make this event possible.

“We are a very small committee and rely heavily on volunteers. In simple terms without them there is no swim! Sincere thanks also to all Councillors who participated in various ways,” added Cllr Williams.