HYMNATHON COMPLETED!

 At 4.55 pm on Friday 22 June, I sat down at the organ of St Stephen’s Sparsholt to play the first verse of the first hymn in “Hymns Old and New”.

26¾ hours later, about sixty of us gathered for an emotional rendition of “I vow to my country” and then the 571^st and final hymn in the book – very appropriately this was “You shall go out with joy”.

I would like to thank everyone who supported this event, including all those who gave up their precious time to come and sing, particularly those who came from a distance and also those who were there through long hours offering singing support and good cheer.  Thanks to all those who have donated so generously – the result speaks for itself - and also to all those who helped so kindly with the publicity.  I must thank my family and particularly my wife Chrissie, who has been a constant source of loving support, as well as helping with the publicity.  Finally there are many others, too numerous to name, who have made a contribution of one kind or another to this great event.  You know who you are - thank you!

For the record, I survived on one helping of shepherd’s pie (not quite timed to coincide with Crimond!), one banana, one slice of Marmite toast and a delicious plate of kedgeree (all provided by my wife) plus chocolate, wine, Talisker and coffee (kindly provided by others).  I would also not have survived without some very kind medical intervention! 

In response to individual sponsors' requests, I did sing one verse contralto; we included "When a knight won his spurs" and "I vow to thee my country"; and I wore my Southampton shirt to play "For all the saints".

There were several highlights, but I particularly remember being encouraged by the presence of so many fellow-residents, friends, colleagues and former colleagues: the rousing rendition of “Oh, Oh, Oh, how good is the Lord”; the helter-skelter dash for the finish; and the magical sound of the bells pealing to mark the completion of the task. 

Many, many thanks to everyone.  I enjoyed every moment. 

If by any mischance you are visiting this site without having contributed, please feel free to rectify this! 

You can find out more about the Church at www.hants.gov.uk/pew-news/benefice/ststephen.htm