PEMBROKE Dock hosted some talented German visitors at the weekend, as part of events to celebrate the town’s 200th birthday.

Pembroke Borough Silver Band invited the Posaunenchor Grossenritte Band, from Baunatal, to take part in a weekend of performances which earned several standing ovations.

After an 18-hour trip, the band enjoyed refreshments at Pembroke Dock Community School before their first rehearsal with their host band.

On Friday, both bands enjoyed a day of sight-seeing in Tenby, a picnic at St Govan’s Head, and a coastal walk, followed by a visit to the Old Point House, Angle.

Saturday saw both bands play at the Quin’s carnival parade, which ended with a barbeque and refreshments at the Naval Club.

Sunday started with a rehearsal at the Pater Hall, before a first-class lunch prepared and served by Pembroke Dock WI.

Under the baton of guest conductor Alan Bourne, a Pembroke Borough Band ‘old boy’ and musical director of RAF St. Athan Voluntary Band, the concert opened with the rousing Fanfare and Flourishes.

Jubilation by James Curnow was greeted by the first of several standing ovations, and followed with the haunting Moricone’s Melody in the form of solo cornet player Cindy Hissey and euphonium player Robert Thompson.

Guest vocalist Emily Kaijaks, accompanied by James Voros on keyboard then performed three songs in her own inimitable style.

The first half concluded with three pieces, Bandology, Over the Rainbow, and a dynamic medley Bond themes.

Four traditional Welsh tunes and another performance from Emily and James earned another ovation, followed by a film-inspired final session.

The day concluded with a hog roast at the Quin’s Rugby Club.

Before returning home, the band also took part in a commemoration service to mark the beginning of World War 1 at the Military Cemetery in Pembroke Dock, where wreaths were laid by members of both bands.

Pembroke band have since been invited to visit Germany in 2016 for Baunatal’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

Pembroke Borough Band is always looking for new players.

They meet on Thursday night at the Pembroke Dock Community School during term time.

For more information phone 07964 246910.