There was an international flavour to the congregation at Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir’s latest concert, at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Pembroke Dock.

The choir and the church setting brought back many memories for German guest Michael Fisseni as in the 1980s he had sung there, alongside male voice choristers, as a member of the Mannerquartett from Freudenberg which had close links with the local choir.

Since then Michael and his wife, Astrid, have kept in close contact with the choir’s Stage Manager, David Halsted, and his wife, Jeanette. David is now the only chorister who sang alongside the Mannerquartett.

The large congregation also included second tenor Malcolm Rees’ daughter, Ceri, who lives in British Columbia, Canada.

Making a welcome return as soloist was Mirelle Ryan, of Pembroke Dock, who delighted with four pieces, accompanied by Musical Director Juliet Rossiter. The choir accompanist was the Rev William Lambert and the MC was Matthew John.

One of the choir items was dedicated in memory of Mrs Carole Chichester, wife of former first tenor Ken Chichester, who died recently in Australia where they lived.

Choir and soloist were thanked on behalf of St Mary’s by John Power who remembered the long service of chorister Frank Harries who died in January. Frank was a lifelong worshipper at St Mary’s.

For the finale – Morte Christe – choristers were joined by Michael Fisseni, Cor Meibion de Cymru member Tony Hossack and by long serving first tenor Charlie Hare, making a very welcome return to the ranks.

Church ladies provided excellent refreshments and were thanked by choir chairman, Huw Morgan.