Manual worker

Possibly the reason for Cynic's faux pas re. the Truro broadcast is that it is generally accepted practise in some circles to take on extra singers for major events. I never do this - however there are often singers who expect to be asked and are offended when you don't. All goes to prove that you can't win in this game. I will, however, be sticking firmly to my priciples and applaud all those others who follow the same path.

Glad to hear that David and Hazel Gedge got recognised for their amazing contribution - and that from far off Brecon which was always kept thoroughly 'on the circuit' by virtue of what they were achieving there.

The very same clergy who don't seem to mind preaching long sermons in inappropriate services (Carol Services/Choral Evensong etc) have also developed the similarly tedious habit of inviting the assembled multitudes (!) to stand to sing hymns. The organist starts, the choir stands immediately and the congregation heave themselves up before the start of the first line - mostly. What could be simpler. The clergy-led alternative leads to chaos and confusion among choir and congregation alike - or maybe it doesn't matter to anyone else but me. I have heard the congregation invited to stand, hymn number announced, first line read, number announced again, congregation invited to stand and number again - all for one hymn. We'd soon hear about it if the anthem was a bit prolonged.

10-67 Brides 7 year-old neice would like to sing with the choir during the signing of the registers (said child invariably has adenoidal trouble and loves kareoke!!)

Surely the best thing is to wear what is appropriate to the traditions of the place, the requirements of the service and the expectations of clergy/congregation etc without becoming slavishly tied to one idea or another. I have managed in cassock and surplice, gown and hood, mufti and once, at a youth service, jeans and tee-shirt. My preference is to conduct in some sort of robes as you are much more visible than at most consoles.

Then there's all the free parking in the town centre; the perks are endless!!