The overcast and damp weather in the middle of June did not affect the enjoyment of over 100 members and guests of The Arts Society West Wales who gathered at Cresselly House to celebrate fifty years of the national Arts Society and 12 years of the West Wales Society.

The Arts Society fosters all aspects of artistic work and actively encourages the interest of young people in art and the arts, as well as the preservation of our cultural and artistic heritage.

They were welcomed to his splendid home by Hugh Harrison-Allen who invited them to see and hear the entertainments that had been arranged. There was jazz in one part of the house and a recital by a cellist in another. Members were reminded of the achievements of the West Wales Society in fostering Young Art - the work of young artists forming part of the exhibition; and the recording the interiors of churches and their contents before possible closure. The work of Church Recorders is deposited in the National Library of Wales and other national archives.

Prosecco and superb canapés provided by Ros Beck ensured that a a great celebration was enjoyed by all. People travelled long distances to join the party, none more than the president, Mrs. Sydney Beresford-Davies, who had founded the West Wales Society in 2006.

In the previous week, members were entertained at their regular monthly meeting in the Queen’s Hall, Narberth, by a fascinating talk by Chloe Sayer on the golden treasures of the Incas entitled ‘Gold of the Gods’ - an apt choice for a year of golden celebration.