Inspired and led by Iris Taylor, a small group of Penally Church members took the initiative and challenged local residents to share their ideas to be enterprising and imaginative in creating 'The Penally Experience'. Enthusiastic church members, reflecting on the overwhelming local response, said "The Penally Experience exceeded our expectations" and others described it as "a marvellous idea bringing church and village together and bridging the gap between Christianity and the arts." Penally has a story to tell: An Australian and other visitors were impressed by Sue Baldwin's display of archives and photographic material tracing 'the story and village life up to almost over a hundred years ago'. Art Gallery: Mary Ball's vision was to transform the village hall into an art gallery over the Bank Holiday weekend. Over 20 local artists responded to her invitation and many of the pictures were of the beautiful Tenby area. The sales of some of the pictures were generously given to the churchyard appeal. Here, too, people were able to relax with their friends to have delicious refreshments and the 'Pudding Party' on Sunday was especially popular. Three walking tours in the Penally area gave people a sense of place. Arts and Crafts: On entering the church, visitors passed Margaret Brown's magnificent flower arrangements. There was a wonderful display of crafts that reflected the high standard of craftsmanship of so many different items on show. There was quilt making, pottery, walking sticks made from local wood, tapestries, and greeting cards among others. Music and Verse: Church organist Diana Lunn had asked groups of musicians, solo performers and poetry readers to be adventurous in their programmes. The music and chosen poetry complemented each other. 'Maytime, loveliest season' reflected the beauty of the area. Andrew Cusworth conducted his 'In Tune' Youth Choir in a spirited performance and the four young members of the Tenby wind group followed with some lively music making. St. Mary's Handbell Ringers are well known locally for their quality performances. The visitors enjoyed them especially. Ailwen Higgins (soprano) gave a short recital and delighted her listeners with a sensitive performance. On Sunday she sang with 'The Penally Singers' directed by Michael Higgins. This choir provided a short feast of music with real moments when everyone's spirits soared, especially in the final item from Fauré's Requiem In Paradisum. The last group to play were talented children who brought their instruments and delighted parents and everyone. They deserve every encouragement. There was a Welsh poem too. On Monday, the organ took centre stage, with Diana Lunn playing a selection of pieces from Bach to Malcolm Archer. In the afternoon, we were treated to a virtuoso performance from John Harrison. Churchyard Restoration Appeal: A thrilled churchwarden, Valerie Paley, in thanking everyone for their generosity and hard work, was able to announce they are well on their way to passing the halfway mark in raising their £2,000 target. The raffle with wonderful prizes will be drawn on August 4 at the Village Flower Show. Tickets are available from Mavis Lees 01834 845345 and church members. The Penally message is that together we must encourage support and enthusiastically reach out and seize the opportunities to serve our village community. 'The Penally Experience' has been a starting point in a forward-looking process for everyone. It was a great weekend!