BENCHES outside a popular sea front pub and restaurant have been removed days after they were put in place due to “objections” disappointed managers have said.

A petition has now been launched in a bid to reinstate the bespoke seating outside The Galleon Inn and Sunset View Restaurant at Broad Haven, a SA Brain Brewery establishment which has recently been refurbished.

The proprietors state: “The Brewery placed them into position, ready for the May bank holiday and the instant attraction of them was amazing. Everyone loved them and they were full of happy people, both local and visitors enjoying the sunshine. Yes it was good for business, not only for us but for fellow businesses around us. Visually it added to the village greatly.

“We never doubted the seating would be safe because historically seating has been in place for decades.

“Five days later they were removed as the council and the local community council objected to them. First stating 'safety ' issues and then other nonsense which was completely unjustified. Social media has been amazing and this issue has gone viral.”

The petition is calling on Pembrokeshire County Council, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and new leader Cllr David Simpson to rethink the removal.

“It's not just about The Galleon suffering, but this affects all small business and the village as a whole. Small business in holiday areas need every bit of help and support they can get from the local community council.

“This is a community and we encourage community spirit. Sadly we have all been let down by the powers that be and also this has now also affected the other businesses and their seating arrangements,” adds the petition statement.

A spokesman for Pembrokeshire County Council said: "Together with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, we are working with the owners of the Galleon Inn to resolve the situation.

"The County Council, however, did receive complaints about the tables and chairs after they were erected without consent."

The petition can be found at change.org or via The Galleon Inn and Sunset View Restaurant Facebook page.