The Salvation Army in Tenby marks 140 years.

The Salvation Army in Tenby is 140 years old in 2026. Celebrations begin this weekend with events marking generations of service to the community and a visit from two of the church and charity’s most senior officers. 

The church in Tenby was founded in 1886 in dramatic fashion with its arrival described in The Salvation Army magazine War Cry at the time as an invading party. Initially some locals were sceptical, with one young boy reported in the local press asking the four arriving officers, ‘Is that all of The Army?’ The movement quickly took root and has become a trusted and enduring presence in the town, offering support and advice to vulnerable individuals, including emergency accommodation, employment counselling, and food assistance as well as running two weekly coffee mornings and Sunday worship. 

Everyone is invited to join the 140th celebrations as Tenby welcomes two of The Salvation Army’s international leaders, Commissioner Edward Hill, Chief of The Staff and Commissioner Shelley Hill, World Secretary for Women’s Ministries.

Commissioner Edward Hill said:

“It will certainly be a celebration of faithful and compassionate service to a beautiful community dating back to the early days of the Movement. We anticipate being inspired not only by the rich heritage and ongoing ministry of The Salvation Army in Tenby, but also by its vision for the future, continuing, in the name of Jesus, to shine as a bright light and enduring source of hope for generations to come.”

The local church has consistently stepped forward whenever the town has needed them such as in 1996 after the tanker Sea Empress spilt 72,000 tonnes of crude oil off the Pembrokeshire coast. The Salvation Army played a vital role, delivering sustenance to teams of emergency workers in remote areas inaccessible to vehicles.

The Divisional Commander for Wales, Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Roberts, highlighted the importance of honouring both the past and the present.

Lt Col Roberts said:

“The Salvation Army in Tenby has a lot to celebrate as it looks back on 140 years of service in the town and wider area. It is also important to recognise what it is doing today, offering a helping hand to all. I encourage the members to keep on doing that long into the future.”

Captain Clare Jones, who leads the church in Tenby, said:

“We thank God for His faithfulness and for the continued mission through The Salvation Army here in Tenby. From its beginnings as an ‘invading party’ singing in the streets to its present role as a place of worship, welcome, and practical support, The Salvation Army continues to serve the community with compassion and hope.”

The Salvation Army in Tenby can be contacted at Upper Park Road, Tenby SA70 7LT, by email address: tenby@salvationarmy.org.uk or call: 01834 843537.