Welsh Government Minister Edwina Hart has been given an exclusive preview of exciting heritage plans by the Pembroke Dock Sunderland Trust.

Mrs. Hart, the Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science, met trustees and project staff before visiting the Fleet Surgeon's House in Pembroke Dock's former Royal Dockyard. This Georgian building is the next step in the heritage initiatives led by the Trust and later this year will open as the 'Fleets to Flying Boats' Centre.

Joining the Minister were Mrs. Angela Burns, Assembly Member for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, and Clr. John Allen Mirehouse, Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council.

Chairman of Trustees, William McNamara, said: "The Minister visited our Flying Boat Centre soon after it opened in 2009 and she was delighted to learn that we have attracted over 20,000 visitors there. This spotlights our aviation connections - just one part of the remarkable story of Pembroke Dock over two centuries. Now we have the opportunity to go forward with 'Fleets to Flying Boats', focusing upon other chapters in this rich history - including the Royal Dockyard, Royal Yachts and our strong links with the Army.

"We are working closely with our partners, particularly Milford Haven Port Authority and Pembrokeshire County Council; without their backing we would not be able to take this next key step along an exciting heritage journey."

Edwina Hart commented: "On my second visit to the Sunderland Trust, I was greatly impressed by the dedication and continued hard work of the volunteers, trustees and project staff and the project's potential to help rejuvenate the economy of historic Pembroke Dock.

" I wish Trust members every success with their ambitions to create a visitor attraction of national significance at the heart of historic Pembroke Dock, as well as safeguarding the future of these beautiful Georgian naval buildings for generations to come."

Work is ongoing to adapt the Fleet Surgeon's House for its new role. In addition to a visitor area, this elegant building will house the project team and the important Pembroke Dock Archive.

An announcement will be made later when the new centre will open.