CONCERT promoter Cerith Owens is hard at work organising the Royal British Legion Charity Gala Concert, which takes place on Saturday, October 17, at the Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen.

The concert, organised by Loud Applause Productions, will support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in South West Wales.

It is being billed as “a thrilling and melancholy evening with stirring and evocative music which as always will leave a lasting impression”.

This year’s concert not only raises funds for the Poppy Appeal but also marks the 70th anniversary of the end of the World War Two, remembering the sacrifices of men and women who have served the country so courageously.

Pendyrus Male Choir and soprano Gwawr Edwards will be headlining this year’s gala, with a special guest appearance by “Carmarthen Local Hero” Mark Llewellyn Evans.

Male voice choirs have flourished since the late 19th century, particularly in the coal-mining valleys of the south and the slate-quarrying areas of the north, and for over 90 years Pendyrus has been one of the foremost names among them.

Pendyrus performs throughout the British Isles and overseas.

The Rhondda-based choir is a member of the Welsh Music Guild and of the Welsh Amateur Music Federation, from which it receives financial assistance, and is supported by a Lottery grant from the Arts Council of Wales, and by grants from the Communities First Trust Fund and Menter Iaith.

Also appearing once again by audience demand will be the 215 City of Swansea Squadron Royal Air Force Cadets Corps of Drums with their stirring and exciting sound.

The evening ends with a poignant Tribute to the Fallen with a cascade of poppies.

The concert starts at 7pm, with the doors opening at 6.30pm.

Tickets are available from Carmarthenshire Theatres box offices on 0845 226 3510.