VALERO Pembroke Refinery’s primary school environmental project has concluded for another year, following another packed programme of events in 2017.

The annual project, which introduces hundreds of primary school children to Pembrokeshire’s abundant natural wildlife every year, takes place at Valero’s dedicated Environmental and Community Centre at the deconsecrated St. Mary’s Church in Pwllcrochan.

The Grade II listed building was converted into an environmental facility by Pembroke Refinery several years ago, and is fully stocked with equipment for the schools to use.

Primary schools from across Pembrokeshire took part in the sessions at Pwllcrochan, including Monkton Priory School, Ysgol Clydau, Broad Haven School, Haverfordwest VC School and Stepaside School.

The day long activities, which take place on the centre’s marshland boardwalks, include pond dipping, identifying aquatic species, and exploring the surrounding woodland.

This year’s sessions were again be led by dedicated project coordinators Clare Jessop and Tansy Knight, assisted by volunteers from the Texaco Retirees Association.

Refinery Public Affairs Manager Stephen Thornton said: “Valero’s environmental primary school education project is an invaluable resource offered free of charge to primary schools across Pembrokeshire, and introduces pupils to some of the amazing wildlife on our doorsteps.

“Our thanks go to our coordinators Clare and Tansy, as well as the committed refinery retiree volunteers, and we look forward to welcoming more schools, teachers and pupils to Pwllcrochan next year.”