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Meet the Path Officer - Pembrokeshire

Theresa Nolan explains why the Pembrokeshire coastline is special to her

Hi, my name’s Theresa Nolan and I’m the Wales Coast Path Officer for Pembrokeshire, from St Dogmaels in the north through to Amroth in the south. Growing up in the Midlands, I spent most of my time outside kayaking on the River Severn or walking in the hills and woods, which really started my love of the outdoors.

The Wales Coast Path provides a unique opportunity to gain access to extensive tracts of unspoilt coast where – in many places – no other means of public access exists. Its spectacular patchwork of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and wooded estuaries make it a place of sanctuary for incredible wildlife and flowers. The vast diversity and spectacular seascapes on offer on the Wales Coast Path always provide an unforgettable experience.

What attracted you to the job?

I’ve always loved Pembrokeshire. As a child we used to holiday around the seaside town of Tenby. As I got older I would visit the St Davids area once a month to go kayaking, coasteering and walking.

Over the years, I have been working to ensure that everyone can enjoy the great outdoors in a responsible way and when the opportunity arose to work in Pembrokeshire, I jumped at the chance.

What’s your favourite part of the Wales Coast Path?

It’s hard to isolate a single part as they are all so different. I love the remote section between Newport and Cemaes Head - the high cliffs and rock formations are spectacular. However, I think it’s my childhood memories of golden sandy beaches between Tenby and Saundersfoot that make this stretch the winner for me.

What’s your proudest achievement so far?

Keeping the path open! Our team of wardens ensure the path doesn’t become overgrown in the summer. Without cutting, the vegetation can reach head height by June so we need to cut it up to four times to keep the path open each summer. Our relationship with the landowners enables us to act quickly when we have unexpected landslides so that we can undertake emergency realignments and temporary reroutes.