The organist librarian

To the cathedral for 10 a.m. and the confirmation candidates gathered in the chapel where St John Southworth lies. Fr Paolo led us across Hyde Park past Buckingham Palace. Once in the park we started saying the rosary which is not something I ever do. I found it strangely rhythmic walking and calming. People didn't seem to mind! It was hot and sunny. I left them near Speakers corner and handed my bags to Mark. Park Lane was closed so had to walk to Marble Arch and then via Oxford Circus and back to Kent House where the car was parked. I arrived at church in good time and started playing at 12.50. The bride arrived 35 minutes late - this is the worst I ever experienced. By then I had played lots of Handel and Stanley! Quite a nice hymn to I vow to thee my country and One more step. Paul was on good form but afterwards he seemed a bit deflated by it all. I then could not get the car out because they took photos in the front of  the church and the photographer was a pain! I was sketc...

Fr Paolo had told me about the commemoration so I skipped the recital at Smith Square and went early to Charterhouse. Martin Penny lived there at the end of his life. The service was simple and moving and ecumenical. Martin Prendergast introduced me to Jennifer Middleton the Methodist minister who chairs Islington interfaith. Came home to find a big match and people being really stupid and selfish about letting cars through. One guy got through the gap and then parked blocking the queue! Also buses parked in Whitehorse Lane is crazy! Parked outside Mary's.