Candles Restaurant at the Dilmun Club in Bahrain played host to more than 110 people as they shared an evening of good food and fellowship to wish the Dean of St. Christopher’s Cathedral, the Very Rev. Alan Hayday, and his wife Pam every happiness in their forthcoming retirement.

Originally, Alan and Pam had asked for no party and no gifts. Many people had other ideas. Significantly, Lois McMullen who, having astutely paid attention during Synod this year, knew exactly what to buy for Pam. When in Jordan shortly afterwards, Lois searched until she found “just the thing”: gold charms depicting young girls (symbolic of Pam’s three grand-daughters). Pam’s delight was a joy to see as she opened the box to reveal the charms affixed to a gold link chain.

Jointly, Alan and Pam were also presented with a traditional rug of their choosing, and an envelope containing the means for Alan to buy a bicycle and helmet (to tour the Lincolnshire Wolds) and start the search for a new digital camera.

Unknown to Alan and Pam (or so it is thought!) a notepad was circulated so that those who wished to scribe their personal messages of thanks, good luck and adieu could do so. All the messages have been sent to Alan and Pam by e-mail.

On 1st June Alan and Pam flew out of Bahrain, but as several people remarked, they believe that quite likely it was not for the last time! Both have made a huge impression on the lives of many parishioners in Bahrain, several convinced that it is only a matter of time before they return briefly for a visit, for whatever reason.

Meanwhile, we wish them both God speed, good health and happiness in their new home in Louth.

Angela Murray