Don't panic - that's the message from Ceredigion's leader in the wake of pressure for the county to merge with next door Pembrokeshire.

Council leader Cllr Ellen ap Gwynn told this week's full council meeting that the minister had no legal power to compel counties to merge until after the 2016 Assembly election.

"Many other counties have said no and there is no rush. All the balls are still up in the air and we are OK as we are."

She added that she had flagged up to the Assembly that Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire were very different.

"Pembrokeshire is much more industrial and has different priorities. We want to do our best for the people of Ceredigion. What's best for us here. The fight over health services has shown us the danger of focusing on the south."

But Cllr Gethin James urged that talks should be held with Pembrokeshire.

"Even if it is to put together a case why we shouldn't merge," he said.

Cabinet member Hag Harris said the county would have to wait and see what developed.

"We can't hide behind the sofa. We have to take a full part in the process."