A west Wales town was declared a car-free zone on Sunday as part of a UK-wide campaign to cut down on pollution.

The centre of Lampeter was sealed off to traffic and motorists were asked to park in designated areas on the outskirts of town.

It is our chance on one day to make us all aware of these important environmental issues

Hazel Thomas, organiser

A host of events were planned as part of the In Town Without my Car campaign, with pedestrians being the only ones allowed access to the high street.

Organisers say it was designed to be a fun day for the community to promote a serious environment awareness message.

Lampeter was put forward for the scheme by Ceredigion council and has been backed by the town's chamber of trade, community groups and schools.

Organiser Hazel Thomas said: "I have been running a hairdressing business here for 21 years and I have seen the traffic gradually increasing.

"We are on a major route and we get a lot of big lorries through here and we want everyone to be aware of the affect they have.

Residents are worried about traffic pollution

"Because we are a rural market town our main problem is the lack of a local public transport network. "

High street was closed off between 0900 and 2100 BST and through traffic had to use the country roads surrounding Lampeter to by-pass the town.

Ms Thomas added: "It was our chance on one day to make us all aware of these important environmental issues.

Awareness

"It is not just a question of fighting atmospheric pollution or noise but also of improving the quality of urban life."

Events arranged for Sunday included a cycling obstacle race, live bands, street games, treasure hunt and pedal karts.

The day was supported by the UK Government and was formerly known as European Car-Free Day.

Organisers hold the event every year on 22 September, and organisers in Lampeter are making plans for next year's