A packed congregation attended St Matthew’s Church, Llandefalle, on Saturday, May 2, for an evening of music and memories centred on well-known local farmer Ken Rees.

Ken, who is 92 and has lived in Llandefalle all his life, served as churchwarden for 56 years and remains active in both the church and the wider community.

The evening followed a “Desert Island Discs” format, with Ken choosing 11 pieces of music that reflected different stages of his life, from childhood to the present day.

It opened with the hymn This Is My Story, This Is My Song, and included a mix of music and memories, including wartime recollections of spies in Llandefalle and “derring-do” up on Llandefalle Hill, for which Nearer, My God, To Thee was chosen.

Music has clearly been a lifelong thread for Ken. His tenor voice was recognised early at Llandefalle School, where he was taught by Miss Herring, also the church organist for many years. She encouraged his talent, helping him to perform at venues beyond the village.

Ken later became a long-standing member of the Talgarth Male Voice Choir, travelling widely with the group, including memorable tours to America and Ypres, the site of some of the First World War’s fiercest fighting.

The emotional programme featured performances and readings woven around Ken’s choices. Jayne Owen Lowe delivered a moving rendition of Amazing Grace, while Anne Taylor recited Valiant Hearts, which the choir sang at the Menin Gate. Morgan Rees performed Hallelujah, and Paul Sweeting provided a reflective organ solo of Myfanwy.

Other selections reflected personal milestones, including his long and happy marriage to Eileen, celebrated through The Wedding Song and She Wears My Ring.

The evening concluded with the audience joining together in Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer, recreating the atmosphere of a “Thousand Voices” style festival, imagined as if at the Royal Albert Hall.

When asked by host Chris Taylor which piece he would rescue from the waves, Ken chose Myfanwy. His chosen book was Shearing by Godfrey Bowen, and his luxury item - a steak - prompted smiles all round.

Following the programme, guests were treated to a generous meal prepared by the ladies of the parish, bringing the evening to a warm and sociable close.