A CHILDREN’S chorus brought a packed St Davids Cathedral to life on Saturday (May 24) as this year’s Cathedral Music Festival officially got underway.

The performance marked the launch of the 2025 festival and was led by renowned choral director Suzzie Vango, whose energy and enthusiasm inspired dozens of young performers from across Pembrokeshire.

Singing beneath the towering cathedral organ and the historic nave’s vaulted ceiling, the children delivered a programme of uplifting and challenging repertoire to a captivated audience.

The concert followed a lively morning performance from the choristers in the North Transept, where songs from The Lion King and Adele were among the crowd favourites during the ‘Choristers Unplugged’ session.

Suzzie Vango, who has worked with the London Symphony Orchestra, National Youth Choirs and the AB Choir Directors, led the evening performance with warmth and precision. Under her direction, the children’s voices filled the ancient building with powerful harmonies and joyful expression.

Speaking to The Herald after the concert, one audience member said: “It was incredibly moving to see so many young people singing their hearts out in such a beautiful setting. You could see how proud their families were.”

The children’s chorus is just one part of this year’s ambitious festival programme, which continues until Wednesday (May 28). Performers include the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, The Queen’s Six, clarinettist Emma Johnson, and a range of vocal and instrumental ensembles.

The organisers say the aim of the festival is to celebrate musical excellence while making performances accessible to local people. Children under 18 were given free entry to the launch concert.

The Cathedral Music Festival, now in its 44th year, is one of the highlights of the cultural calendar in West Wales and draws audiences from across the UK.

Tickets for remaining events are available from the cathedral’s website and box office.

Crowds raise a glass as music, beer and community take centre stage under cover at Milford Waterfront

RAIN and drizzle couldn’t wash away the good vibes at this year’s Big Beer Festival, held at Milford Waterfront on Saturday (May 24).

Thanks to the large Ascona Group marquee, festivalgoers stayed warm and dry—apart from what they were drinking—as hundreds turned out to celebrate one of Pembrokeshire’s most anticipated events, organised by Milford Haven Round Table.

Supported by headline sponsors Milford Waterfront, Ascona Group and Thornton Motors, the festival delivered an unforgettable afternoon and evening of entertainment, street food, and a standout drinks menu—all while raising money for local causes.

The UK’s number one Stereophonics tribute act The Phonics headlined the event, electrifying the stage with iconic hits. Also performing live were Steve Bartram, Funktion 22, Kyle Kirkhouse, The Doovays, and Big Chicken—each met with cheers from the packed marquee as rain fell steadily outside.

Entry to the event was £25, which included four drink tokens and a limited-edition festival glass. Attendees could sample over 20 cask and craft beers, local ciders, lagers, prosecco and Pimm’s. Featured producers included Tiny Rebel, Mantle Brewery, Gethin’s Cider, and Pembrokeshire Cider Co.

Food lovers were spoiled for choice at the Thornton Motors Street Food Zone, where vendors such as The Junkyard Dog, Impasto Pizza Bar, and Get Loaded served up everything from gourmet hotdogs to handmade pizzas.

A strict Think 25 policy was in place throughout the event, ensuring a responsible and safe environment for all. Security staff praised attendees for their upbeat and respectful attitude.

The event ran until 10:30pm, closing with a crowd-wide singalong to “Dakota” beneath the bright lights of the marquee.

Organisers from Milford Haven Round Table expressed their thanks to everyone who braved the weather, the sponsors who made the event possible, and the volunteers who made it run so smoothly.

ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL came alive this morning (Saturday, May 24) as its North Transept echoed with the sounds of musical theatre, pop, and Disney classics during a spirited performance from the Cathedral’s own choristers.

Part of the week-long St Davids Cathedral Music Festival, the “Coffee Concert: Choristers Unplugged!” event offered a lighter, family-friendly musical interlude amidst a schedule filled with orchestral grandeur and sacred choral works.

Accompanied by Simon Pearce, Laurence John, and Abigail Blake, the young choristers delivered an energetic and engaging set, trading their usual formal robes for casual outfits with a splash of fun—pink sunglasses, flower headbands, and even some 90s-style denim adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

The eclectic programme ranged from the bold optimism of “A World of Your Own” from Wonka to the emotional ballad “Home to You” by Sigrid, performed by soloist Phoebe Laidlaw. Another standout solo came from Harriet Pearce, whose rendition of Adele’s “Chasing Pavements” was met with loud applause.

Highlights included crowd-pleasers such as “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” from The Lion King, “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman, and the Abba classic “Waterloo”. The concert closed with a heartwarming ensemble performance of “Some Things Never Change” from Frozen 2, leaving the audience smiling and humming along.

The event drew parents, festival-goers, and visitors alike, many of whom praised the choir’s versatility and enthusiasm. The North Transept space, filled with morning sunlight and joyful music, offered a perfect start to the day.

Today’s concert formed part of the wider St Davids Cathedral Music Festival, which runs until Wednesday (May 29), with upcoming performances by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Connaught Brass, and The Queen’s Six still to come.

Tickets and full programme details are available at www.stdavidscathedralfestival.org.uk