The organist librarian

Wednesday was a day to remember - my 70th birthday trip replacing the cancelled trip to Ely. Cathedrals express from King's Cross in Pullman first class dining to Chesterfield pulled by a diesel. 4 coachloads 2 and a half hours at Chatsworth. Interesting fashions but in some cases the bling hardly went with the glorious paintings - Rembrandt, Watteau, Reynolds! Lovely garden and glorious day. Returned pulled by steam engine Duchess of Sutherland. Back to King's Cross at 11.45 and cab to Acton after a great day! Nice to see David Gammie.

Thursday to Pallot steam museum and enjoyed steam train ride in a circle. Amazing collection including organs. Contretemps over going together! Le Houquest le Cie is a Celtic mound with 2 fine chapels and German bunkers. Excellent Maritime musuem and Liberation tapestry - had to pay as we had done our 4 for 3! Boys loved it. Tea in St Helier and went to National trust Georgian house which is lovely. Liz bought dresses at East and we got food at Marks. Bruce came to dinner. 

A very good breakfast and went to Tescos and then the model steam railway. Had numerous rides and enjoyed several model layouts and a pipe organ. Good playgrounds, cafe and shop and Ciarán did not want to leave. He slept in the car while we drove to Birling Gap via Beachy Head - a lovely day. Played on the shingle beach and ate cod and chips at Harry Ramsden's with excellent Viceroy pale ale. Watched Great British bake off.

Interesting to make the connection between lawyer Tim Parsons who serves at the cathedral and Michael Toplis who is a Bromley organist. Both enjoy the footplate on the Bluebell railway! Lots of organists like steam trains. Judging by Facebook they also like Star Trek!