I have been a Reader service user for almost 3 years. I have heard many pleasant things about it, but was not sure what to do in Milton Keynes. In July while browsing the web, I came across the upcoming event called Proms that takes place in Campbell Park. As soon as I read the article, I thought to myself that is the one. I immediately contacted Reader service coordinator and she organized a volunteer to come with me.

At the beginning, I did not know what to expect since I had never met this person before. My main concern was, would we be actually able to get along or not, since the difference in attitudes may sometimes have negative outcome from the event. Luckily, Karen turned out to be a wonderful woman. She rung me the day before the event and instantly suggested that we should take chairs, blankets and warm jackets since it could be rather chilly in the evening. On Friday the 14th of august well equipped and very excited we went off for the adventure. On the way to the Shopping Centre, the place for recommended parking, we started talking and found out that we have quite a few common interests. After the arrival and a stroll to the main entrance to the park, Karen offered me a drink and something to eat. It was nice to learn that there were quite a few vans offering hot meals for the spectators.

So, with a sip of my favourite G&T, which kept me warm during most of the evening, I began to listen to lovely classical music and a great soprano voice of Janice Watson. Karen had read all the songs to me in advance, so I could easily follow the agenda. The city orchestra played such famous masterpieces as Slavonic Dance by Dvorak, Carmen by Bizet Habanera, and Jerusalem by Parry. However, my favourite one was Rule Britannia by Thomas Arne, the patriotic song, that I sang most of the Saturday knowing only a few words: “Rule, Britannia! Britannia, rule the waves.” On the way back we saw spectacular fireworks and the beautiful sky, telling us about a new warm day.

I would like to thank Reader service and their volunteer, Karen Armstorng, for organizing such lovely event for me, and highly recommend other users to try facilitation activities. These joyful times create memorable moments that you will never forget.