The 2024 Pembroke Michaelmas Fair started with the beating of the drums of Samba Doc as they led crowds in spectacular procession up the main street to the Waltzers.
There Mayor of Pembroke Cllr Ann Mortenson, along with Mr Henry Studt, Chairman of the Showmen’s Guild, opened the Fair, alongside Town Crier Cllr Gareth Jones, who engaged with his audience with the ‘Cry of the Fair’.
At the reception hosted by the Showmen’s Guild held at Pembroke Town Hall, Mr Henry Studt (Chairman) thanked the people of Pembroke for their warm hospitality and commented how welcome Guild members are always made to feel by the Pembroke community.
The Mayor of Pembroke raffled a gift won at the fair at the reception, making a total of £176.00 towards her Charity, Mind.
The annual fair can be traced back to a royal charter granted in medieval times, attracting young and old to Main Street to enjoy the numerous side stalls and attractions.
Speaking of the opening ceremony on Thursday, October 10, Jonathan Grimes, County Councillor for Pembroke St Mary South and Monkton, said it was “a fantastic start” to this year’s annual St Michaelmas fair in Pembroke:
“This historic event plays such an important part of Pembroke’s heritage and has been enjoyed by generations - including my own family.
“I am very grateful to Pembroke Dock and Pembroke Police for deploying additional officers this year to ensure public safety throughout the three days of the fair.
“Also, where would this town be without the dedication of Pembroke Street Pastors - who spend countless hours looking after the physical and mental well-being of residents and visitors alike?”
It was Pembroke Street Pastors’ 10th birthday, and to celebrate, they covered all three nights of the Michaelmas Fair, helping to make every night safe for all.
Councillor Grimes added: “Finally a special thanks to Suzie and her team at Pembroke Town Council for their hard work in making sure everything is set up correctly, road safety is managed, events organised, and the RNLI Pembroke Ladies Guild for their wonderful catering at the opening evening’s event.”
