UNCERTAINTY over the future of nitrate vulnerable zones in Pembrokeshire is set to continue until the end of the year, Cabinet Secretary for rural affairs Lesley Griffiths confirmed during a visit to County Show today (Wednesday).

With farming unions using the show to focus on the good record of farmers in the county in implementing environmental improvements, Mrs Griffiths said the response to the consultation earlier in the year had been greater than expected.

The Welsh Government is currently considering whether to implement an all-Wales designation for measures to counter nitrates pollution in waterways – or concentrate on specific areas.

Pembrokeshire is in the frontline of concern and could be the focus of stricter regulations that would seriously affect the viability of some smaller dairy farms.

"I initially said I would make a decision on NVZs by the end of the year," said Mrs Griffiths. "There was an incredible response to the consultation – ten times what we received in previous reviews and some of them were very detailed.

"I want to make sure that myself and my officials have the time to look at all the different options."

During her visit she paid a visit to the robotic milking demonstration and talked to show officials and farming leaders.

"I visited the show last year and I'm very glad to be back," she added.

She also took time to view an exhibition of artworks and projects showing the journey of our food from farm to table and praised the work being done in west Wales to educate children about the industry and explain where their food comes from.