Catenian conference

Saturday I went to the conference in the Newcastle civic centre. The new Grand President Tony Godden and Fr Jim O'Keefe both spoke really well. Willie Britto gave a presentation about Goa. The vote went against a change to the rules about the definition of a practising Catholic. I had a nice walk down Grey street (described as the most beautiful street in England) and visited St Nicholas and St Mary's cathedrals which now has a fine St Paul's shop and new organ. The statue of Cardinal Hume is very fine. Bus to Prudhoe and we returned to the Civic centre in evening dress for the Carnival. The previous day bought a new purple bow tie and cummerbund (my Father's day present in advance) and new short swimming trunks. Liz got some lovely jewellery to match her green and blue outfits. There was a mixup over seating. Against our name in the programme there was no table number. I was assured that this had been fixed and so I ordered wine. When we got there there were not enough places on table 23 but eventually it was sorted and I chatted to brothers from Crewe - very interesting engineer who is now doing teaching. Taxi came an hour too early so had to get another one and we were back by 12.30 - £28 for the taxi! The Paul James band were excellent and we did some dancing.