THE news that Holyhead marina is to get a cash boost to help in the clean up following the Storm Emma devastation in March, has been welcomed.

Ynys Môn Labour MP Albert Owen and Isle of Anglesey Labour County Councillor Cllr Glyn Haynes welcomed the announcement from Wales's First Minister Carwyn Jones.

Mr Jones was speaking at the Welsh Labour Conference, in Llandudno, at the weekend, where he also announced he would be stepping down from his role later this year.

A cash package - yet to be disclosed - will support the county council in its Holyhead Marina clean-up operation and grants will also help promote tourism.

Mr Owen said: "This is an important step in the recovery process of the harbour and port community after the dreadful impact of Storm Emma. I have met and lobbied key players including Carwyn Jones and Welsh Government ministers to provide support and to promote the area. I’m pleased the First Minister visited the area and has listened.

"I have also been working with others, including our AM, councils and stakeholders to help support the resilient local community and to take practical steps to clean-up the area. It was an unprecedented event and post-disaster has been complicated and frustrating for those impacted directly, for the local area and economy.

"The harbour clean-up is the responsibility of the harbour authority, and there are complicated insurance issues, however the surrounding beaches are the responsibility county council and this package will directly help them in their task.

Cllr Haynes said: "I have met commercial businesses affected by the storm, and many local residents have raised concerns about local beaches.

"This package will help the county council in its co-ordinated clean-up and will give a positive boost. Carwyn listened to our concerns and this announcement is very welcome."

Mr Owen added that businesses needed county council and other help to get back on their feet.