An audience of over 100 assembled in the cool of the Abbey after a hot July day to learn about Head Verger, Chris Harpham’s journey through life and enjoy his musical choices. Our (very) tall Head Verger is a true Yorkshireman and this was illustrated in some of his musical tastes.
Chris’ career took him from nursing and the forces travelling from his native Yorkshire to Carlisle, York, Dover, Romsey, as well as overseas, the Guards’ Chapel and ultimately returning to Romsey once again. Amongst his roles high on the list must have been when he was Chapel Keeper at the Royal Military Chapel (the Guards’ Chapel) adjacent to Buckingham Palace. Within this role, he met the late Queen receiving the Royal Cypher from her as well as meeting King Charles.
It was no surprise to hear amongst his musical choices military marches and the great Yorkshire tune of ‘On Ilkley Moor baht’at’ (which translates as On Ilkely Moor without hat!). His final choice of ‘music’ was the sound of the Great Bell at Ampleforth at Ampleforth Abbey on which the initial sound is the bell simply swinging from side to side until the toll sounds. Very atmospheric.
All thoroughly enjoyed the evening and the bonus of this evening which was the raising of £1,000 to support the projects within the Abbey carried out by the Friends
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