This was a week of new and varied experiences. Fashion from Boutique 25 and chocolate appreciation were on the menu at a Friends of Three Choirs Fundraiser. Key looks this season include monochrome geometrics, neon colours, layering and beautiful flowered blouses.

We tasted rare types of chocolate and learned to appreciate which beans went into its manufacture. This delighted Phil, who enjoys his chocolate. Also, as the only gentleman at a ladies’ fashion show, he coped pretty well!

Verdi’s Requiem at the Cathedral was spectacular. The Festival Chorus was in excellent voice and conductor, Peter Nardone, bristled with energy throughout. The vocal power of the soloists was astonishing – it felt like live wrap-around sound.

On Friday evening, we attended a pleasant dinner at La Brasserie in Kidderminster, in aid of the Chair of Wyre Forest’s charities.

Visitors to the Parlour this week included a group of Chinese students from Worcester University, some of the Cathedral bell ringers and the Afro-Caribbean Association. All of the groups proved fascinated by English history and traditions – it was a pleasure to share tales of the Guildhall and the city’s history with them.

The Ability Learners Awards, held in the Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel, was a lively and informative occasion. Students gave a presentation on Guildhall history and told me a few details that I did not previously know. They have produced a booklet for future visitors to the Guildhall, which will be available soon. Many thanks to them for their efforts!