I have very great difficulty describing my reaction to the theft of the infamous sign above the entrance to the Auschwitz death camp.  It is astonishing that anyone would contemplate such a theft.  One assumes it may be an act of a person or people who somehow wish to strike a blow to the memory of the millions who died in that and other death camps created by the Nazis.

Having visited the site myself, I cannot relay the feeling I experienced as I saw that gateway for the first time.  That sign summarised everything that was behind the murderous treachery of the evil people who masterminded that place of torture, death and depravity.  Whoever is responsible for this disgusting act, I hope they will see sense however belatedly and return it immediately.  

I had the pleasure of returning to Blackheath Halls today for a meeting to discuss funding, and the huge amount of work done in partnership with the local community.  I originally visited in the Summer when I attended the Community Opera, a great occasion that brought together children from a number of local schools on stage with professional and amateur opera performers.  Today I popped in to hear the final rehearsals for a performance of The Turn of the Seasons, performed by children from local schools.  Their singing - and behaviour - was fantastic!

Although the Halls receives some funding from both Greenwich and Lewisham Councils, most of their income is from concerts and hire fees and the generosity of supporters.  This is a fantastic facility in the heart of the local community.  If you've yet to visit, do so soon!