An enjoyable evening was shared by all in All Saints Catholic Church Parish Centre on Saturday 29th September. The evening also coincided with Father Andrew's last weekend in Lanchester and was a chance to enjoy his company in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

The evening was hosted by the Goan tourist veterans in the parish who have visited Goa over the last three years. A Power Point presentation which was put together by Margaret Grey from the many hundreds of photos that were taken, transported the audience to warm shores of Goa and helped to give an insight to not only the stunning natural beauty of this part of India but also a flavour of ots history and the colourful and vibrant culture of its people.

The highlight of these visits to Goa has been the opportunity to visit our old friends Father Alex and Father Caetano, who have also spent time here in All Saints Lanchester, as well as Father Andrew in their various parishes in Goa, and to enjoy their wonderful hospitality. It was great to be able to share our happy memories of these visits with everyone.

After the presentation, light refreshments and drinks were served which allowed everyone the chance to ask questions in a relaxed and informal setting.

The evening was rounded off with a presentation of a cheque for £100 by Gerry and Anne Taylor from the Durham Branch of Blind Life. The money is to be used by Father Andrew specifically for blind and partially sighted people in his parish of Arambol.

The evening raised over £150 in donations which was added to the 2 parish collections over the weekend, amounting to over £1000 for Father Andrew to take back to his parish in Arambol.

Father Andrew left to return to Goa at 4am on Wednesday 3rd October after his 3 month stay here in Lanchester and was checked in at Newcastle Airport by none other than a Lanchester resident Caroline Hall which added a fitting touch to what has been a wonderful experience for both parish and Father Andrew.

Margaret Gray.