Almost 80 choristers, wives, widows, vice-presidents, life members and friends gathered to share a meal and enjoy an evening of informal entertainment.
Compere for the afternoon, Eddie Stapleton, introduced the choir chaplain, Rev. Nanette Lewis-Head, who said the grace before the meal, and after the meal, introduced the choir chairman, Eric Mullins, who made a fine speech of welcome and encouragement.
Then the choir president, Roy Noble, gave a most entertaining and highly amusing 'after-dinner' speech. Roy's wonderful Welsh sense of humour, put all at their ease and began the 'high spirits' of the early evening entertainment in exactly the right mood.
Roy moves easily amongst a crowd, many of whom he has known for years and some of whom he only met that day, but he shows a real interest in and warmth of friendship to all. It was good to see his wife, Elaine, amongst the informal 'choir' that enjoyed hours of singing after the meal.
After Roy's speech, Eric had the pleasant task of handing out certificates for 25 years service with the choir, to John Griffiths, Alun Rees and Dave Flanaghan. Two other choristers, who were unable to be present, have also reached their 25-year stage, Terry Evans and John Hurlow.
Eric reminded the choristers of the coming years events, including the trip to the Royal Albert Hall in October 2004, and the trip being organised to Italy in October 2005. The trip to Tuscany, in Italy, will be an opportunity for the choristers and their supporters to see some very beautiful parts of Italy and to sing in a country almost as famous as Wales for its music!
Eric wished it to be known that if any man living in or near Tenby wishes to join the choir and is prepared to commit to regular weekly rehearsals, he would be most welcome to join the Italian adventure. For further information, ring Keith Nixon, secretary, on (01834) 871887.
When the speeches and presentations were over, everyone who could, adjourned to the downstairs bar and pretty soon, the singing began. It really was excellent, with the help of Jill on the piano, and the ladies of the Friends group complementing the choristers singing.
There was a superb duet from Roger and Graham, which the MD Christine immediately pronounced as 'in', and the singing only began to falter when voices were completely worn out!
A most successful event once again for Tenby Male Choir, who look forward to another busy year beginning on Sunday, February 29, when they will support St. Johns Cymanfa Ganu, and continue with their first public concert on St. David's Day, at St. Johns Church, at 8 pm.