Choristers, family and friends met for the annual Tenby Choir lunch at the Fourcroft Hotel on Sunday, January 16. Eighty-four members and guests, including choir president Roy Noble, gathered in Ossie Morgan's Restaurant for a most convivial afternoon. In fact, it was so convivial that it stretched well into the evening; the feast being followed by an afterglow of fluid-fuelled singing and conversation.

Chairman's Address

Between courses, chairman Terry Evans had a busy time as he presented various raffle prizes. Then he formally welcomed the company, reviewing what had been a busy and successful year for the choir. However, the year had been tinged with sadness because of the passing of choristers and friends; so a glass was raised to those were were not able to be there.

Wishing her a long and happy retirement, Terry also paid tribute to retiring pastor, Rev. Nanette Lewis-Head who had said the grace.

Then, looking to the future, he welcomed several new members. Urging further recruitment, he reminded choristers and supporters of MD Ian's promise to introduce 'Nidaros' into the repertoire when the choir can stage 50 members.

New Sponsor

Chairman Terry also announced a new sponsorship deal for the choir, with Fourcroft proprietor, Chris Osborne, presenting him with a cheque for £500 on behalf of Ossie Morgan's Restaurant.

Roy Noble's Speech

Choir president Roy Noble then addressed the guests. His theme was 'Time is like a suitcase: it packs itself and moves on.' He acknowledged the loss of old friends, thanking Ann Maggs for the gift of Roger; then telling us how much he missed Ray Gravell - 'an extraordinary character'. Roy then reflected upon the current difficult economic times and upon the changing face of Tenby.

Fondly recalling his visits to his grandfather in 8 Trafalgar Road, Roy amused the company with various reminiscences about his childhood, including visits to Woolworths in Tenby, and the educational qualities of the newly-defunct Grattan's catalogue. Returning to his theme, he urged his listeners 'Carpe Diem: seize the day!'

Looking to the future, he said that TV competitions such as 'Last Choir Standing' had done much to boost the membership of all choirs. He promised to compère the first concert in which the choir performs 'Nidaros'. As there's already 47 members, hopefully there won't be long to wait.

To round off the formal events, the four newest choristers presented bouquets of flowers to Elaine Noble, Jill Williams (accompanist) Nicole Evans and MD Ian's wife Sue Williams.

Sue thanked everyone who had contributed to the 'Santa Wilbur' guess the weight competition, which raised £72.50 - over half of that being from outside the choir. The company then repaired back to the lounge where the music started, helped by Ian and Jill on the piano.

Forthcoming Events

The choir are currently very busy preparing for the 1000 Welsh Voices Concert at the Albert Hall at the end of April. The rehearsal room at the County Club has been totally refurbished during the last few weeks, with members helping out as often as other commitments will allow. They are a friendly club, and enjoy a tremendous camaraderie.

There will be a cawl and quiz night on February 27, which will take place in the newly-re-fitted rehearsal room in the County Club room. Chairman Terry is the resident quiz-master and chef for the evening, so come along and join us - all are welcome.

The first public performance of the 2009 season will be at the St David's Day Cymanfa Ganu on March 1 at St Johns Church in Tenby.

Information about the choir and details of its 2009 programme are available on the official website http://www.tenbymalechoir.org">http://www.tenbymalechoir.org. There are also clips of the choir singing available to download. New choristers are always welcome. Rehearsals take place on Tuesdays and most Thursdays at Tenby and County Club on the Croft. Guests are also welcome. Anyone requiring more details should contact the secretary, Eric Mullins, on (01834) 845117.