The Mayor of Pembroke hosted a Victorian murder mystery evening in Pembroke Town Hall on Friday, which proved to be a very popular event. No fewer than 80 people became amateur sleuths to detect whodunit in ‘Murder in the Queen’s Arms,’ a murder mystery performed by Harvey Mysteries, a group of actors who stage these events in order to raise money for charity.

The players began by acting out a set piece, painting a scenario against which murder was committed: a lonely inn set above a jagged coastline where the staff was busy sorting their pickings from their trade as wreckers. Then, unexpected visitors, a body discovered - who did it? All actors were suspects and it was the job of the audience to discover the murderer.

Having set the scene, the actors then mingled with the audience whilst wining and dining. ‘Suspects’ joined them at the table one by one for questioning, with the first table to suss out ‘whodunit’ winning the prize. So, whilst guests enjoyed a lovely meal, they were kept entertained and at the same time helped raise money for charity.

Mayor, Clr. Pauline Waters, organiser of the event, said: “I’d like to thank all the people who turned out in such dreadful weather to make the evening such a success, helping to raise £840 for my charity ‘Community Youth of Pembroke.’ I wish also to give a big thank you to the volunteers of Pembroke and Monkton Local History Society who did the cooking, serving, washing up etc and without whom the event could not have taken place. Thank you also to Sharon Bevan, Tesco Community Champion, who rolled her sleeves up and joined the volunteers. Finally, thank you to all who generously donated raffle prizes and helped in any other way.”

The winning table was headed by David James, who collected the prize for correctly guessing the ‘murderer.’ David will again be appearing in the Town Hall tomorrow (Saturday), at Pembroke and Monkton Local History Society’s museum morning. Secretary of West Wales Maritime Heritage Society, David will be giving a talk about opening a maritime museum in Hancock’s Yard, Pembroke Dock. There will also be an update on Pembroke Museum which will open during the morning.

A coffee morning will accompany the event, beginning 10 am, and the talk will take place at 10.30 am. There will be a raffle and sale of local books. Entry is free and all are welcome. Enquiries to Linda 01646 622428 or email [email protected].