Talgarth Male Choir celebrated its 50th anniversary at a dinner in the Castle Hotel, Brecon, on April 26, attended by 97 members, past members and guests.

The very convivial evening was compered by choir chairman John Allen who extended a warm welcome to all and introduced the principal speakers.

John Edwards, one of the longest serving choristers, reviewed the early years of the choir and some of the colourful characters it contained.

He recalled that the origins of the choir date back to the Maesllwch Arms in Glasbury late in 1968. A group of men, who had earlier participated in a bowls match, burst into song and were overheard by Morwen Pugh, who happened to be in the pub.

She suggested the formation of a choir and, after its formation, became its music director for the next 44 years. Morwen retired in 2012 and was succeeded by the current MD, Paul Sweeting. John paid tribute to the outstanding contribution made to the choir by Soloists and especially its accompanists, including the current long serving incumbent, Val Whiston.

The main speaker for the evening was the well known BBC Wales radio and TV personality, Roy Noble OBE. He gave a memorably outstanding talk, which kept the whole room in constant laughter.

Painting a picture of the fabric of Welsh community and culture and, after congatulating the choir for its place in this mix, he went on to share many anecdotes of the interesting people and places met and visited during his career.

These were intertwined with, in his own words, “A rambling compendium of tales from Wales, fact, fiction and fanciful”, which are covered in his new book “Down the road and round the bend.” The choir is most grateful to Roy for ensuring a wonderful evening.

Other events planned to continue our celebratory year include:

May 17– joint concert with the Orpheous Singers (SE Essex Ladies Choir) in the Plough Chapel, Brecon, in aid of Ty Hafan

June 21 – joint concert with Aberhonddu Male Choir in St. Gwendolione’s Church, Talgarth.

October 18 – joint concert with Tenby Male Choir in St. Mary’s Church, Hay on Wye.

September 26 -30 – singing tour of Tuscany.

The choir rehearses on Monday nights at Gwernyfed Rugby Club at 7.30 pm. New members will be very welcome.