The organist librarian

2 days at home resting. Did not go to chorus Thursday but OK for choir on Friday. Finished Neil MacGregor's outstanding A History of the world in 100 objects. Saturday to reading group and Liz to diaconate ordination. Discussed Lucky Jim. Not impressed that the author is not to come next month after all - I shall not bother again. Came home and did not go to Buddhist pagoda as weather changeable. Smoke vespers and Mass with RSCM voices and commissioning of special ministers so Paul, Nick, Emmanuel and Anthony there. Swavek gong to Enfield, Tim to Rickmansworth and Kingsley going too. Mobile phone has disappeared. Dynarod came and cleared drains. Watched Cardiff singer of the world. Great baritone and sopranos.

The car hire company picked us up and took us to Hexham to pick up a brand new Hyundai. We drove to Meadowfield Durham over the moors and a rather round about way via Bishop Auckland. John Oliver deputy works manager took us round Harrison and Harrisons organ builders and it was fascinating. To Ushaw college which will close in July - very fine rhododenrons. Said evening prayer at Durham cathedral which is unusual for us! Oliver Brett met us at 6 and demonstrated the fine Harrisons organ and then I played - not very well I'm afraid especially the Hallelujah chorus - what a sound! We drove back to Prudhoe for dinner at 8. Tuesday took car to Byker via Quayside and a lift to the station where we left the animal bag and had coffee at St Mary's cathedral cafe and bought cards at St Paul's shop. Had a look at Youcat which the Cardinal had commended. 3 hour train journey to King's Cross and back at Acton by 5 p.m. I bought 2 books "King's speech" and How...