Croydon Catenians Circle 60

Brother President, Terry McCarthy selected Canterbury for his President’s Weekend after reviewing a number of alternative locations.

This wonderful, historic city with its historic Cathedral, and pedestrianised city centre within the ancient walls lived up to all expectations.

40 brothers, wives and ladies attended the weekend from  2nd – 4th September and stayed at the Abbots Barton Hotel just outside the city walls. The hotel offered comfortable, well appointed rooms and wonderful service from helpful staff.

The weekend enjoyment started with Evensong on Friday night where the Croydon Catenians were welcomed by Vice Dean, Canon Nicholas Papadopulos.

Evensong, sung that evening by the adult male choristers, is one of the musical services, sung six days a week at the Cathedral continuing a 1400 year old musical tradition at the Cathedral.

Dinner was taken at the hotel.

A private guided tour of the Cathedral had been booked for 10.30 and the party was divided into two groups with a qualified guide. The tour lasting 90 minutes was fascinating, especially with a knowledgeable guide able to explain the architecture and history in detail. A candle still burns above the tomb of Thomas Beckett murdered by knights at the wish of King Henry ll.

Most of the party met at the Wildwood restaurant for lunch before setting off on a historic boat tour on the River Stour. The oarsmen were great fun and full of amusing and historical information.

The final dinner took place at the Cafe du Soleil where everyone enjoyed an excellent meal and great service. Sophie the manager ensured that everything was perfect.

Mass on Sunday Morning offered by Father Valentine Erhahon at the Catholic Church of St Thomas of Canterbury was a fitting end to the lovely weekend.

Forty three brothers, wives and ladies visited Hever Castle on a warm Friday evening in August to enjoy a performance of ‘Carmen’ as part of the Hever Festival Theatre.

Performed by the Opera Brava Operatic Group, ‘Carmen’  featured an international cast and a sensational Carmen in Lilly Papaioannou.

The performance was superb, the singing wonderful and the beautiful weather, lovely setting and under covered seating combined to make a most enjoyable evening.

Some of the group partook of a pre-theatre dinner in Guthrie Pavilion Restaurant while others brought picnics and enjoyed the lovely grounds by the side of the lake.

President’s Sunday started with Mass celebrated by Fr. Barry Hughes at the chapel of Coloma School.

Over 70 members, wives and ladies attended the intimate and warm Mass. Circle member and Deacon Philip Pond assisted and the servers were Keiron, Rachel and McFarlane, children of Brother Mike McFarlane.

A buffet lunch and drinks were served at the home of President Terry and Shirley McCarthy with the food being provided by the ladies of the Circle.

The weather was perfect, warm and sunny, ideal for an afternoon in the garden.

The May Supper was held on Tuesday May 24th at Purley Downs Golf Club.

Croydon Circle were delighted to welcome as guests, Bro. John Lydon, President of Province 19, Bro. Peter Woodford Immediate Past Grand President, Bro. David Arundale Director of Province 19 and Bro. Kevin Rourke Immediate Past President of Province 19 who all attended with their wives.

The May Supper is the Circle’s opportunity to entertain our Ladies and wives and is one of the few ‘black tie’ events in the Circle’s calendar.

Terry McCarthy, Circle President, welcomed all the guests. Provincial President, Bro. John Lydon replied and thanked Croydon Circle for their great support for his Provincial Weekend in Bath later in the year.

The Chef at Purley Downs Golf Club produced an excellent meal and a great time was had by all.