Sir,

May I congratulate the Tenby Observer on its 150th anniversary. It is indeed a most important landmark in the history of a newspaper which was instrumental in establishing press freedom.

It is a happy coincidence that Tenby Museum and Art Gallery celebrates the 125th year of its foundation at the same time. The reporting and recording of events in the history of this ancient town go hand in hand and it is good to know that co-operation between our two organisations continues to be as strong as ever.

Although the reports of the commemorations at the 'Museum on the hill' tended to be overwhelmed by accounts of the 'Observer events', nevertheless these commemorations were momentous milestones in both the history of the museum and the ancient town of Tenby.

Responding to an invitation from the trustees early in the year, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales consented to visit us during our anniversary celebrations, although not before the museum had undergone several vettings regarding its suitability for a Royal visit by officials and Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for Dyfed, Lord Morris of Aberavon KG, QC, PC.

Security precautions as they are these days precluded an early announcement and knowledge of the forthcoming visit was restricted to three persons until the press embargo had been lifted.

The museum and art gallery celebrations had already got underway with a most successful 'Fete on the hill' on Saturday, July 26, the centre point of which was an extremely convincing and polished re-enactment of the official opening exactly 125 years before to the day by members of the Tenby Players and supporters who all added to the authenticity of the performance. Special exhibitions in the galleries further enhanced the proceedings and the whole event was a great success and provided additional funds for the museum.

Hard work then continued apace to put finishing touches in readiness for the visit of the Prince of Wales. On the big day of July 31 the Prince arrived after his progress through Tenby in poor weather, but nevertheless in a happy mood, and at the end of the afternoon he departed even happier, having enjoyed his visit.

Precise details of the visit have already been well chronicled, but it must be said His Royal Highness expressed genuine interest in all he saw and also exhibited a very keen knowledge of the arts. Alas the visit was all too short, but nevertheless a memorable one.

As chairman of the trustees, I was privileged to greet His Royal Highness and also to bid him farewell.

The visit was a huge success, but no success can ever be achieved without the hard work and dedication of so many. The permanent staff, with special reference to John Beynon, the indefatigable curator who lead the whole operation, together with his assistant curator, Mark Lewis, ably supported by those linchpins of our organisation, our wonderful, talented and hard-working volunteers who for many years have performed so willingly all manner of tasks necessary for the smooth running of the museum.

Our thanks are extended also to the Friends of Tenby Museum and Art Gallery for the support they provide, and to Tenby Players, the Pembrokeshire County Council, the Tenby Town Council and the general public, sponsors and supporters from local trade and industry and the ever -present goodwill extended to the museum which makes for both achievement and enjoyment.

Finally I pay tribute to the trustees and all who keep the ship on an even keel. I hope that we have done credit to both the Museum and Art Gallery and this ancient town.

Thank you most sincerely one and all.

Wilfred Hardy MBE,

Chairman of Trustees of Tenby Museum and

Art Gallery