The first day of autumn arrived with sunny skies and brightness last Sunday, September 1, and the lovely weather was replicated in the warmth of the monthly benefice service at St. Mary's Church.

Rector Andrew welcomed everyone and expressed the hope of church members that all those visiting our beautiful seaside town would benefit from a very happy holiday.

Much to their embarrassment, the Rector then called on three special young people who have played very significant roles in the life of St. Mary's Church. Thomas Griffiths, Bethan Rogers and Corey Morris are soon to spread their wings after completing their A-Level studies here in Tenby. University and the big wide world beckons these three students and they are shortly to begin their studies (and possibly a little socialising!) at the start of the new academic term.

Tom is off to Gloucester to study animal welfare, Bethan to Portsmouth for a degree in mechanical engineering and Corey will be undertaking a music degree in Cardiff. We wish them well at this momentous stage in their lives and know that they will continue to make their families proud. Their talents and personalities are sure to be greatly missed and we trust that, occasionally, they will feel the need for a trip back to sleepy Tenby to refresh their bodies and souls after the pressures of student life!

Several members of the congregation had recently celebrated birthdays and were also called forward to be treated to a birthday chorus. Amongst those now one year older was our very own nonagenarian, Stan Caswell, whose birthday was on Sunday and who sported a large and colourful badge in case he had been allowed to forget it! Stan and his family had held a fantastic party at New Hedges Village Hall on the previous day, when a stunning steam train birthday cake had been shared.

In place of gifts, Stan had asked for donations for equipment for the playing area in the village and around £150 was donated by party goers.

Following Sunday's service, another happy event was held in Church House when the congregation were able to properly congratulate Stan on reaching the wonderful age of 90. This time, delicious refreshments were prepared and served by the legendary Soupermen team and another magnificent cake, made and decorated by Lindy Wainwright, was enjoyed. Stan and his wife, Betty, were full of praise for everyone who worked so hard to provide the refreshments and wish to express their sincere thanks to the kitchen team and the Soupermen.

During August, the charitable giving of the benefice was again at work. It was the pleasure of Rector's warden, Nicole Evans, to present Mrs. Eirwen John with a donation for the Brainwave charity, in support of the groundbreaking work it undertakes in researching a wide variety of neurological disorders affecting babies and children.