AFTER months of fevered preparations the most important nine days in the Pembroke calendar have arrived.

Pembroke Festival 2005 opened with a colourful parade on Friday with children carrying models of damsels, dragonflies and other pond creatures.

After an address by Pembroke town mayor, Aden Brinn, the crowds were treated to live music until late.

Entertainment from the Sea Cadets, yachts and Pembrokeshire Paddlers made Saturday's Water Festival a memorable affair while on shore the local produce market was well attended.

Rain didn't dampen the spirits at Commotion on the Commons on Sunday where seven bands put in excellent performances amidst the wellies and umbrellas.

Sunday also heralded the second International Welsh Celtic Fiddle Competition.

Among those judging the high quality entries was Pete Cooper, head of the London Fiddle School. The winners will be announced shortly.

A wide variety of entertainment was on offer on Monday and Tuesday in the form of guided walks, Welsh story-telling and a dazzling display of Spanish flamenco dancing.

However, anyone who may have missed the early days of the town's third annual festival can rest assured there is plenty more to come.

Tonight (Wednesday) Pembroke will be welcoming the Goldberg Ensemble, the UK's leading string ensemble, who will be playing in the castle grounds while their audience enjoy a picnic under the stars.

Other events to look forward to include the battle of the bands, a Celtic night and, of course, the grand finale, parade and firework display on Saturday.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the numerous events being held over the final four days of the festival can contact the Eastgate Centre on 01646 680090.