The organist librarian

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...

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 enoug...