Tenby Town Council are debating whether to provide financial support towards the annual Senior Citizen’s Christmas Dinner again this year - which is hosted by Tenby Round Table.

At the most recent meeting of the Town Council, a funding application was submitted, with the request to help the funding of the free Christmas dinner in Tenby, taking place on December 10, at the De Valence Pavilion once again.

Costs are to be confirmed, although last year the total cost of the event was £4,497.

The town clerk told members that until final numbers are confirmed the total cost cannot be 100% confirmed.

“Tenby Round Table are extremely grateful of the historic support and funding provided by Tenby Town Council in helping us put on this event,” stated the correspondence.

“Without previous support, Tenby Round Table are not entirely confident they could continue to provide this evening to the senior citizens of Tenby.

“We were hoping to receive funding of £3,500 for the event in 2025.

“Tenby Round Table would provide remaining funds from money raised at charitable events in Tenby across the year.

“Roughly 150 to 200 senior citizens from the community attend the last dinner.

“The Qube group do a fantastic effort in catering the event. The grant is being requested to help Tenby Round Table cover the costs of the meal for the attendees.

“The event is only able to be attended by citizens within the electoral boundary of Tenby. As a result, theoretically, 100% of those that benefit will live in Tenby,” it added.

Cllr James Phillips told his fellow councillors, that, as far as he was aware this level of financial support dates back to Covid, when Round Table were unable to hold their annual Summer Spectacular fundraising events down the harbour.

He said that the Town Council had stepped in to assist to ensure that the Christmas dinner was delivered. Round Table however, seemed to expect continued financial support even though fundraising activities had been able to resume.

Cllr Dr. Tara Carmody felt that the senior citizens dinner was a laudable activity, but questioned the level of support requested. She did not feel the sums added up.

The Mayor, Cllr Dai Morgan suggested returning to this request in September to see if the Round Table had been able to hold their two summer spectaculars.

“I am not saying we will not support them but it may give us the opportunity for further discussions,” Cllr Morgan remarked.

Cllr Laurence Blackhall seconded the movement.