Church members at St. Mary’s Church were delighted to share the birthday celebrations of a greatly loved and respected member of the choir at last Sunday’s morning service. Mr. Doug Perry became a nonagenarian on January 20 and was warmly congratulated by Rector Andrew. Doug first joined his church choir as a boy of only six, when he and his family lived in Dover. He has been a member of St. Mary’s Choir, in its tenor section, for the past 30 years. He is also a founder member of Tenby Male Choir. The congregation on Sunday were treated to a wonderful rendition of Britten’s A New Year Carol by the ever-faithful church choir, along with one or two amusing anecdotes from Doug’s eventful youth! A colourful birthday card, which had been made by the children of Sunday Club, was presented to Doug and following the service friends enjoyed a slice of delicious birthday cake and a glass of wine in celebration.

Rector Andrew cordially welcomed the West Wales representative of Ty Hafan Hospice, Priscilla Bowden, to Sunday’s Eucharist. Throughout 2015, donations totalling £6,400 have been made via the memorial candle corner and, as in past years, this magnificent sum was presented to Priscilla. She spoke warmly in gratitude for the generous donation and gave a brief explanation about the new sensory facility which has recently been developed for the patients at Sully.

Mrs. Mary Smith, on behalf of the St. Mary’s Handbell Ringers, was also pleased to present to Priscilla a further substantial cheque for £1,000. Again this autumn and winter, the hardy ringers have been providing entertainment to guests at Tenby’s Cliffe Norton Hotel and collecting funds for charity. They are to be admired for their wonderful commitment, turning out each week, whatever the weather. A further donation will also be made to the charity Sense in the coming weeks.