A first foray into the West Country was voted a great success for Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir with a memorable musical evening – and the treat of local pasties!

On Saturday, September 24, choristers and music team joined forces with Cheddar Male Voice in a joint concert at Draycott Memorial Hall before an audience of nearly 150 people. The choirs came together for two very popular pieces; over 40 choristers singing ‘Unchained Melody’ and ‘American Trilogy’.

Although reduced in numbers, the Pembroke choir was well balanced in the sections and performed nine warmly applauded items. Musical Director Juliet Rossiter was supported by guest accompanist Heather Williams and the choir’s principal soloist, Alyson Griffiths. Heather – accompanist to Carmarthen Male Voice – was standing in for regular pianist Carole Rees.

Jovial compere was Matthew John who always surprises with his asides – this time especially with his total command of Wales’ longest placename, Llanfair PG!

The evening concluded with both National Anthems, following which Chairman John Hillier presented a Pembroke Male Voice plaque to his Cheddar opposite number, Andrew Ratcliffe. And each host chorister was gifted a bottle of Henry VII cider, provided by the Pembrokeshire Cider Company which is run by second bass Dave Halstead – a Welsh incursion into the heart of cider country!

Excellent refreshments for choristers and guests – including delicious pasties – were enjoyed with thanks expressed by John Hillier.

Joining the visitors were the choir’s No1 supporters, President Clive Collins and his wife Enid. And Secretary Dean Maiden was praised for his excellent organisation of the weekend trip, which centred on sunny Weston-super-Mare.

An invitation to Cheddar Choir for a return visit was well received by the hosts.

Pembroke and District Male Voice practices each Tuesday evening at St Teilo’s Church Hall, Pembroke Dock, from 7pm and invites men of all ages who believe they have a voice to come along and try out choral singing. They will be warmly welcomed. Information from Choir Secretary Dean Maiden on 07779 905995.