Tuesday is normally practice night for Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir, but not so for December 14. It was off to sing at Pembroke Haven Residential Home and later in Ashdale Home in Pembroke, where Mrs. Sue Harries reminded them that they had been coming there for 31 years. Time, then, for short-sleeved shirts, Christmas neckwear and numerous modes of headgear. The appearance of two mischievous Elves in their midst caused raised eyebrows, but Santa always needs the help of Elves, as do the PDMVC. It was very pleasing to see Carole Rees able to join us, after her illness had prevented her from joining us of late.

First visit was to Pembroke Haven, where all joined in carols and Christmas songs, and rang bells and various other instruments, to the strains of Sleigh Bells Ring and Jingle Bells and others. After a few choir offerings, it was off on our sleighs to join the folk in Pembroke.

There, the same pattern was used, although three majestic gentlemen also took part, namely, Chris Rooker, Frank Harries and Ron Rees to sing We Three Kings, but, gentlemen, were you perhaps outclassed by a young lady (Sally) and a young man (Thomas), who sang Away in a Manger. Well done all!

More Christmas songs and carols were sung, except that three members of the choir took over the baton for a piece each, Steve Lloyd (2nd bass), Ken Edwards (2nd tenor) and Ron Rees (1st bass). Look out Madam Conductor!

After singing We Wish You a Merry Christmas, the choir partook of refreshments. Altogether, a very pleasant and happy evening.

On Tuesday, December 21, a visit was made to Bush House Care Home and again the choir entertained. Amongst the residents were two people who had given long and valued service to the choir over many years.

Mr. Owen Jones was at the very first meeting in 1952 to decide whether to have a male voice choir in Pembroke Dock, and from then on, Owen was not only a member and officer of the choir, but a wonderful bass soloist, and was able to sing with the choir on Tuesday, having attained the age recently of 94.

A lady, who is also a resident, Joan Lewis, gave valuable service over 40 years as a duettist and soloist. Joan sang Away in a Manger beautifully.

Both of these folks still enjoy their singing and it was a pleasure to hear them again.

Followers of the PDMVC are reminded that on St. David’s Day 2017, the choir will be singing at the Town Hall, Pembroke, for the Mayor’s Appeal. The choristers will have a short break and recommence practices on Tuesday, January 3, and wish their vice-presidents and loyal followers a very happy and a healthy New Year.