Beggars Reach was the venue for the annual dinner of Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir and it proved to be an extremely popular choice with those who attended.

Expertly organised by Chris Rooker (choir social secretary), but before venturing further, this reporter needs to offer an apology to the man himself. Several previous choir reports have referred to him as Jeff Rooker and this became almost a fixation. So to be absolutely clear, CHRIS Rooker he is and hopefully will remain so for any future mention.

A pleasurable experience for all at Beggars Reach on the night was the expertise of the serving staff and the way they carried out their duties without fuss, swiftly, politely and efficiently. It certainly added to the occasion and we offer thanks for those efforts here.

The second notable event was the attendance of Ken Davies (2nd bass) and wife Ena at the dinner. Needless to say, Ken received a hearty, and heart-warming welcome from fellow choristers and music team who have missed his presence mightily at practice and concert. Ken suffered serious head injuries in an accident sometime ago and has taken some time to recover. He looked in excellent health, though, and obviously enjoyed himself.

That recovery, however, must acknowledge the incredible contribution and commitment of Ena his wife. Medical staff can accomplish miracles in the repair of physical damage. After care and rehabilitation, however, are equally important, perhaps more so, and the dedication and care Ken has received from her has contributed immeasurably towards his recovery. Few can realise what this dedication has meant for them both, but Ken would be in a bad way without it today.

At the completion of the serving of a wonderful meal, a major raffle was organised and completed in short order by Chris Rooker and Tony Ward. No time was wasted at all in galloping at pace through a very large pile of prizes, generously donated by various choir members.

Speeches after from both Chris and Tony were brief to the point where words expressed were countable on two hands and that jointly!

Choir secretary Phil Lloyd, taking his cue from this exemplary brevity, laudably continued in the same vein when presenting bouquets of appreciation to the choir's all-female musical team, Chris Lloyd, Carol 'Smiler' Rees, Joan Lewis and Alyson Griffiths. We believe strong liquid went the way of Phil Lloyd as thanks for his untiring efforts on behalf of P&DMVC.

The booking of entertainment had been rejected in favour of all present taking the opportunity instead to circulate and socialise, this adding further success to the occasion.

Nearly the end of the choir's year now, you know, but you can see P&DMVC in concert with Sageston School Choir in Bethany Chapel, Pembroke Dock, 7 pm, December 9. You wouldn't want to miss that would you?

A.S.