A first return to St Johns Church, Tenby, in three years for Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir was also a notable first as choristers shared the stage with the Serendipity Ladies Choir from Narberth.

Both choirs have the same musical director, Juliet Rossiter, who had a very busy evening taking charge of over 50 singers.

Pembroke choristers sing twice yearly at St Johns but have not been able to for the past three years due to the coronavirus pandemic. The choirs were greeted by a large and appreciative audience, receiving a standing ovation at the end of their group items and again after a joint performance of the traditional South African melody ‘Siyahamba’ to conclude a memorable evening.

Serendipity Ladies Choir was set up in 2016 and meet weekly at Bloomfield Community Centre, Narberth. They sang a varied programme of modern and folk and gospel songs. Their compere was Claire Dunbar and they were led at the piano by Juliet.

The Male Voice programme included songs from shows, hymns and gospel music. Mathew John was in fine form as compere and Carole Rees was the accompanist.

In a busy week of engagements, the Pembroke Choir sang six items on Armed Forces Day at Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre. Plans to perform on the Centre steps had to be changed due to heavy showers, instead singing indoors to an appreciative audience.

The following Sunday evening the choir staged at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Pembroke Dock, in a special concert to mark the choir’s senior member, and church member, Frank Harries’ 93rd birthday, with packed audience and choir joining in to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to him.

Regular soloist Alyson Griffiths delighted with two items on flute and First Tenor Peter Halifax sang a Ukrainian song and one based on a Bible tract.

After both church concerts excellent refreshments were provided by church ladies and they were thanked by Choir Chairman John Hillier.

Next Male Voice concert is on Sunday July 10, at Templeton Church.