A new Tudor Rose is to be created in Pembroke.

The paved Tudor symbol will be the focus of a half-a-million pound street improvement scheme in the centre of the town.

The new scheme will link up earlier improvements to Pembroke's Main Street and the recently upgraded Eastend roundabout.

It's hoped that along with EU funded commercial property grant schemes, the improvements will help regenerate the town centre.

"It's only fitting that the town which was the birthplace of Henry VII and the Tudor dynasty should mark its heritage in this colourful way," said Clr. David Pugh, cabinet member for economy tourism and communities."

"Pembroke town centre has looked tired of late and in need of a facelift. Hopefully this new scheme, along with other improvement projects, will improve the street scene, inspire business confidence and help attract visitors in these challenging times."

Work on the £545,000 improvement scheme will start at the end of this month and is expected to take eight months to complete.

As well as the colourful Tudor Rose - on which the town's Christmas tree will be annually located - the scheme will feature road improvements and also create a large pedestrian area in front of the Methodist Chapel.

The work will be done by Alun Griffiths Contractors and will be carried out in five phases avoiding both school holidays and the annual fair.

Road closures will only be necessary for resurfacing work at the end of the project in December.

The scheme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government and is part of a £3.2m EU backed scheme to revitalise and restore the rich heritage of Pembroke and Pembroke Dock.