Catenian Province 10: Provincial Weekend 2017

Provincial Weekend 2017 – Carden Park

The Provincial President, Robert Thompson, hosted a very successful weekend from Friday 10^th to Sunday 12th March 2017 at Carden Park in Cheshire. A total of 155 people attended the event. Robert was joined for the weekend by some of his family including Rebekah Watson his niece, who was his companion for the weekend, and his sister and brother-in law Isobel and Brian Watson.

On Friday evening, Brother Robert hosted a pre-dinner drinks reception for Presidents and Presidents-elect and their wives/ partners. After the usual buffet style three-course meal the entertainment following was in the style of ‘The Good Old Days’, and Robert had suggested that guests may like to dress up in period costume suitable for the theme; ladies wearing hats and gentlemen cravats. During the evening, the audience was entertained by performances from Rebekah Watson, Isobel Watson, Celia Neill, Tony Jones and the ladies choir. Not forgetting the comedian Robert Greenwood whose very old jokes were in keeping with the evenings theme! The entertainment was compered by Brian Walton and the musical maestro was none other than the king of the keyboard, Mike Fitzpatrick, who also played for the Mass on Sunday morning. The entertainment finished with a sing-along to a few of the old-time songs followed by disco, courtesy of Peter Western, until the early hours.

Saturday morning saw a number of hardy souls joining Christine Fitzpatrick who organised a 6-7 mile walk around the Cheshire countryside. The weather was reasonably kind to them, however, I am reliably informed that part of the walk was quite muddy! Many other guests took the opportunity to visit the historic city of Chester including the cathedral, city walls, river Dee and, of course, the shops. Others took the opportunity to visit the nearby National Trust properties of Chirk Castle or Erddig House. The English Heritage site at Beeston Castle was also within easy reach. Unfortunately for the ardent golfers, the golf course was closed as it was waterlogged and unplayable. The crazy golf course was not really a viable alternative!!

The ‘Black Tie’ dinner on Saturday evening was preceded by a drinks reception for members of Provincial Council and honoured guests. The Director of Province 17, and GB National Vice-President elect, John and Pauline Hogan attended, as Carden Park was in their Province. Following the dinner, Brother Robert made his farewell speech thanking all who had assisted him throughout the year and all the Circles for their warm welcome and hospitality. He concluded by awarding prizes to the best dressed man and woman at the Friday evening entertainment and also for the winner of the Quiz. A free raffle, (Yes, I did say FREE Raffle), followed with a winner on every table.

The weekend closed with Holy Mass on Sunday morning, followed by the customary Group Photograph.

Thank you once again Robert for a splendid weekend which was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.