COUNCILLORS have praised Penarth Pier after it was crowned with a national award.

During a Penarth Town Council policy and finance committee meeting last night, April 9, councillors welcomed the Pier of the Year award and paid tribute to both the Vale Council and the Penarth Arts and Crafts Limited group for helping the £4.2million renovation take place.

Councillor Michael Cuddy, who represents the St Augustine’s ward, said: “Congratulations to Penarth Pier on winning Pier of the Year 2014.”

He added that he hoped it would continue to be used by the Waverley paddle steamer, which is set for six sailings from Penarth in early September, and the Balmoral paddle steamer once it is back in action.

“It’s a great pier to meet the boat and hopefully the Waverley and Balmoral will keep getting support in the coming year to make it a real in demand operation.

“The pavilion is also doing very well, so congratulations to both the Vale Council and Penarth Arts and Crafts Limited on behalf of the town council.”