The organist librarian

Woke too early! As a result was a bit grumpy. We set off from Selhurst at 9.52 and went via East Croydon direct to Portsmouth Harbour. Filled in a passenger survey about the train which was good. Ferry to Ryde and walked down the pier when we could have taken the shuttle train. Got a bus to Sandown and visited the Trouville. First impressions not great but the dancefloor and rooms impressive. Parking is a problem and there is a charge if you cannot get into the car park, also the dining room cannot be rearranged into larger tables. We then went on to Shanklin on the bus and were immediately impressed by Channel View hotel. There are 2 disabled rooms which look very comfortable, nice dance floor and dining room which can be rearranged with tables of 8 and pool. We had an omelette at a cafe and got buses to Quarr Abbey. We arrived in the middle of vespers and met Fr Gregory Corcoran afterwards. He mentioned to a man that we were Catenians and he kindly picked us up and took us to the fe...

Buses to church although snow had gone on roads. Took some retirement cake which was much enjoyed. Choir sang "I look from afar" by Palestrina really well. I played Bach Wachet auf and Thiman on Winchester New. The Byrd 3 part Kyries going well too. Got train from Coulsdon South at 11.46 and to Dartmouth Castle at Hammersmith for lunch and family party for Ciarán who was on great form walking about. Nice that Mia came too. Had shank of lamb. Lovely chocolate cake decorated by Louise. Antiques roadshow on return home and Art of Germany with Andrew Graham-Dixon.