By Harold Hands,
The Catenian Association, Midland Province 6

For the 20th year running Catenians from across the Midlands made their way in early February, down south to the seaside resort of Bournemouth for their annual Provincial Weekend way.

This is an opportunity for Catenians their families and friend to get together for an early break and enjoy fellowship and fun centred on a common faith.

The formula is well tried and tested and this year as normal, the base for the stay, the Marsham Court Hotel, was full to capacity with several weekenders having to stay at a neighbouring hotel.

The weekend’s activities started with Mass said in the Hotel on the Friday night celebrated by Fr Philip Newbold our priest in residence for the weekend, followed by an evening meal, live music and improvised entertainment later on in the bar till the early hours.

Saturday morning began with Mass and following breakfast two coaches made their way to Salisbury where the party was split into small groups for guided tours around the magnificent cathedral. The weather was inclement so after the visit to Salisbury cathedral it was back to the hotel were most took the opportunity to watch the Six Nations Rugby Tournament.

The evening’s entertainment started with the Musical-themed Fancy Dress Parade which included a large number of participants entering single, pairs and group categories.

Kenilworth Circle with their version of the ‘Sound of Music’ won the group prize. A festival banquet followed together with a tombola in aid of the Provincial President’s charity, the Apostleship of the Sea. The evening was rounded off with entertainment and dancing to ‘Fifth Avenue.’

On Sunday morning Mass was said in the Hotel’s Terrace Ballroom again by Fr Philip. This was followed by a farewell lunch, where thanks of appreciation were given to the staff of the hotel, and the organisers Bill and Mary Johnson, who have arranged the weekend for five years in a row and will be passing on the responsibility to Michael and Joan Sherrard.

If you would like further details about the Association, it’s aims, objectives and requirements of membership please visit the Association’s Provincial website or contact Bro Harold Hands on [email protected]