A terrific evening was held in the Queen's Hall, Narberth, on Saturday night.
Elvis, Mary Quant, and Twiggy look-alikes joined teddy boys, Mods and Rockers, St. Trinian girls and colourful hippies in a 1950s and 60s Back to School Prom.
The Queen's Hall pulsed with the rhythms, beats and songs of this popular musical era whilst the party-goers, with ages spanning four decades, rocked and rolled until well after midnight, with two great bands creating the magic.
Some party revellers had gone to great lengths to enter into the spirit of the evening with a genuine school gymslip being recovered from the attic! It was last worn over 40 years ago! (I wonder how many of us could still get into ours even if we had kept them!) Vera Neal and Pam Harley celebrated their birthdays and there was a 1950s/1960s Top of the Class Quiz which kept everyone entertained during the interval.
But it was the two bands who wonderfully transformed the drizzly November evening into one of momentous enjoyment (providing their services absolutely free). Deep Joy began the evening with renditions from their wide repertoire of '50s and '60s classics, with dancers taking to the floor from the first drum beat. Their lively delivery quickly got everyone in the mood and we were soon transported to a bygone world, revelling in nostalgia (or parents' nostalgia in some cases!).
The Frantic Five took over after the interval, when a typical school dinner of bangers and mash was served and people gave generously to the raffle. Some of the band were unrecognisable, wearing a collection of youthful wigs, that made those present believe we were actually still in the 1960s!
The music built over the next hour-and-a-half to create a crescendo with the performance of Hi Ho Silver Lining, when everyone was on the floor, not wanting the evening to end.
It was a very memorable evening, which raised a magnificent £1,300 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
This could not have been achieved without the generosity and support of the many contributors: Café Q, Andrew Rees (butchers), Betty Thomas (Betty Potatoes!), The Marina in Saundersfoot, Deep Joy and The Frantic Five, all donated their products and services.
Members of the Tenby, Saundersfoot and District Committee of Macmillan Cancer Support worked tirelessly to ensure that the evening was a success.
Importantly, over 140 local people bought tickets, there were donations from individuals, some of whom were unable to attend, and whilst having a fun evening, all these contributions have helped to provide vital funds to ensure that the expertise and services provided by Macmillan Cancer Support are sustained. Everyone's efforts are greatly appreciated.