December is a busy month for everyone, but for Tenby Rotarians there are two events that take pride of place - the annual Christmas Concert in St. Mary’s Church, and Tenby’s Gateway Club Christmas Party.

So at 7 pm on Tuesday, December 5, they were delighted to welcome members, friends and family to St. Mary’s Church for an hour of festive entertainment.

The Rev. Andrew Grace and Tenby Rotary’s president, Dr Rhodri Evans, welcomed the congregation, which included Tenby’s Mayor, Clr. Mrs. Sue Lane, and even a member of Rotary visiting from New Zealand.

Without further ado, proceedings began with a rousing rendition of Oh Little Town of Bethlehem - perfectly pitching the atmosphere for this traditional evening with its mix of musical performance, readings and singing. The Tenby Church in Wales VC Primary School Choir were able to join in this year for the first time, and it was wonderful to see the children relishing performing in such an environment.

Another superb performance was then given by The Greenhill School Jazz Band, this year featuring vocals from Tom Davies (year 12) and Kiah Lyndsey (year 9). Ryan McSweeney (year 10) on his trumpet also stepped into the breach when the St Mary’s Church Hand-Bell Ringers were forced to withdraw at the last minute through illness, and our thanks go to all those who took part. Without doubt they are a very talented group of individuals and it is always good to have the opportunity to hear them perform.

In his closing address, Rev. Grace thanked all the performers, as well thanking Mrs. Lane and Dr. Evans for their readings. He also made reference to the good works undertaken both by the Rotary Club Association worldwide, and in particular by the Tenby Rotary branch with its various well-publicised fund-raising activities.

But there are also many things that Tenby Rotary support in the background, and a great example is its involvement in the organisation of the Gateway Club’s Christmas Party - providing support and funding, as well as persuading Santa to stop by and present gifts to the excited Gateway Club members at the end of their disco party.

This year’s party was held on Thursday, December 14, and a great time was had by all!

The Rotary Club of Tenby would especially like to thank those who came to the concert - for many the start of Christmas festivities each year - and who gave so generously on the night, providing funds to enable the Rotarians to continue their good works. Special thanks must also go to Leila and the team at Tenby RFC for hosting the Gateway Christmas party and providing such an excellent buffet.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the Rotary Club of Tenby can find information and contact details on https://www.facebook.com/TenbyRotaryClub.