It may have been Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir’s first ever visit to the chapel in the aptly named Pleasant Valley.

When choristers gathered to sing at Stepaside Methodist Chapel, long serving members were trying to recall if the choir had ever sung there in 72 years.

The concert, before a ‘full house’ congregation, was especially in memory of Joyce Lewis, chapel organist, organiser and long time stalwart member who died a year ago.

Minister, Rev’d John Hayton welcomed the choristers along with musical director Juliet Rossiter and accompanist Carole Rees. A very varied programme, including Welsh hymns and items from musical shows, culminated in the Morte Christe - always special - with ‘Siyahamba’ as a rousing encore.

Juliet and Carole again came together for keyboard duets while soloist Alyson Griffiths performed, on flute, ‘Pie Jesu’ and a medley of spirituals.

Alyson also joined MC Matthew John in duet for a medley of musical and wartime songs, accompanied by Carole.

Thanks to choir and team were expressed by Rosemary Tippett-Maudsley who also read a poem from Dylan Thomas’ ‘Under Milk Wood’ - which is sometimes sung by the choir - in tribute to Joyce Lewis.

Chairman John Hillier thanked the chapel ladies for providing splendid refreshments.