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Moseley Chimes
July—August 2008
After an early start from Moseley, our coach arrived punctually outside the Anglican Cathedral. As we approached we had seen its majestic tower standing on a hill. We entered, gasping at the huge space of the Nave in this, the fifth largest Cathedral in the world and we were quickly shown downstairs to where coffee was waiting.
Returning to the Nave we were divided into two groups each with a guide. The tour was extensive and very interesting. The building was completed in 1978 after many years of building. Initially residents of the city had made donations towards the building costs. We saw a variety of chapels including the elaborately decorated Lady Chapel in which we later joined in a short service.
The whispering arch was a great attraction as was also the ‘snail handle’ on one of the doors of the Lady Chapel. Beautiful flower arrangements and tapestries provided decoration in corners of the lofty stonework. The bridge across the Nave allowed amazing views over the vast space.
Lunch followed, and as I was at this time responsible for the youngest member of the party, aged seven, we decided that a visit to the Docks was appropriate. (There were several other, more cultural options).
In the drizzling rain we walked through Chinatown and found a park with swings and roundabouts which had to be wiped dry before use. Then we heard a band and walked towards it. Complete with police escort it stopped outside the Swedish Church where there was a celebration. After that we were fascinated by the amphibian bus which drove around the city and then – great excitement – went down a slope into the water and toured the docks.
By the time we had located the booking office and read the timetable it was not possible to take the trip and return to the coach in time. We settled for an ice cream and a small present from one of the dockside ships which delighted Lewis. After that he said, “Can we go on the boat now?” Sorry to disappoint him we found the normal bus station and returned to the Cathedral in time to hear the last few items of the wonderful music from the RSCM massed choirs which filled the Nave. They had obviously had a very successful afternoon and there was a buzz of excitement everywhere.
Our coach left for Birmingham at 5:30 p.m. and we all agreed that it had been an enjoyable and rewarding day.