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.

Tenby’s iconic seaside hotel restored to its former glory

THE IMPERIAL HOTEL in Tenby has reopened following a major refurbishment, restoring one of Wales’ best-loved coastal landmarks to its former splendour.

Now under the ownership of Crest Hotels Group, the Grade II-listed building has undergone a comprehensive transformation blending 19th-century heritage with contemporary luxury. With its position overlooking South Beach, the revamped hotel boasts redesigned rooms, a stylish new lounge, and the launch of a modern dining experience, Essence, offering sweeping views across Carmarthen Bay.

Crest Hotels acquired the property in 2024 and have since delivered what they describe as a “sensitive but ambitious” restoration. Every element of the upgrade respects the historic character of the building, while bringing it in line with today’s expectations for comfort and quality.

Tracy Webb, General Manager at the Imperial Hotel, said: “Crest Hotels has given this hotel what it deserves. The refurbishment is beautiful and will have a hugely positive impact on Tenby. With the new spa and gym opening next year, it will bring something a bit different to the town.”

All guest rooms have been redecorated in sea-inspired tones of blue and green, and now feature high-end fittings including Hansgrohe power showers, luxurious Sleepeezee beds, air conditioning, and high-speed internet. Substantial improvements have also been made to the bar, restaurant, and the hotel’s iconic seafront façade.

The new restaurant, Essence, champions Welsh produce and caters for both residents and visitors. The menu includes everything from small plates to three-course meals, with local ales, craft beers, and bespoke cocktails. The hotel is also dog-friendly, providing canine guests with dog biscuits while their owners enjoy complimentary Welsh cakes.

Tracy added: “The aim is for the Imperial to be as busy in winter as it is in summer. Tenby is such a special place — it means holidays, happiness, sunshine. South Beach has always been my favourite since childhood, so to work here with that view every day is amazing.”

Jason Hiley, Managing Director of Crest Hotels, said: “We want to reclaim the Imperial as the place to go in Tenby — a hotel that locals and visitors alike are proud of. It needed some tender loving care, and we’ve brought back the style and elegance it always deserved.”

Tenby remains one of Wales’ most popular holiday destinations, known for its colourful harbours, golden beaches, and rugged coastal walks. The Imperial Hotel offers a prime base for exploring the wider Pembrokeshire coast, including landmarks such as Carew Castle, Caldey Island, St David’s Cathedral, and the National Botanic Garden of Wales.

For more information or to book a stay, visit: www.imperialhoteltenby.co.uk