Return to Hull

We return to Hull Royal Infirmary tomorrow for my wife's post operative consultation with the surgeon.

This evening the Archbishop of York gives his lecture in Hull Town Hall marking this year's anniversary of the abolition of slavery.

Specially commissioned Wilberforce Lecture Trust lecture as part of Wilberforce 2007.

The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Dr John Tucker Mugabi Sentamu, will deliver his lecture as Hull City Hall at 7:30pm, organised by the Wilberforce Lecture Trust. The Wilberforce Lecture Trust is responsible for organising the lectures, which address the themes of human rights, freedom and democracy.

The first lecture in 1995 was delivered by Hugh O'Shaughnessy, one of the first journalists to highlight the Indonesian genocide in East Timor. As part of Wilberforce 2007, the Trust has commissioned lectures by Archbishop Fitzgerald, Prime Minister of Barbados, Archbishop of Canterbury, Prime Minister of Mauritius and the Archbishop of York.

The event will be opened at 7pm by the East Yorkshire Motor Services brass band who will deliver the world premiere performance of a specially commissioned piece of music, 'Reformers', which has been comissioned as part of Wilberforce 2007. The piece is a three movement work composed by Professor Philip Wilby, who will be taking part in this performance playing the City Hall Organ. The composer was given the challenge that the music should reflect the four themes of Wilberforce 2007, Pride, Freedom, Belief and Change. Philip Wilby wrote about this commission: "Although he was involved in many charitable projects, not least establishing the RSPCA, and London's National Gallery, it was Wilberforce's successful campaign to abolish the slave trade, which has secured his reputation. "This new composition is inspired by his work, and his belief in the saving power of evangelism to change prevailing attitudes and establish freedom for all. John Newton, sometime slave captain, was one of Wilberforce's mentors in early life, and composed many well-known hymns. 'Amazing Grace' has become the text most associated with black musicians, and forms the centrepiece of my score. "The emphasis of my music has been on the positive aspects of Abolition rather than the negative issues surrounding slavery. Although it contains some reflective aspects, the defining message of Reformers is triumphant." Coinciding with this concert will be the release of the Band's latest CD 'Reformers'. As well as featuring the title piece, this CD features a selection of light concert music, many of which have featured in recent concerts. This CD will be on sale in the foyer of the City Hall, both before and after the performance.

The lecture will form part of the visit to the city by the Archbishop which includes meeting school children at Streetlife and a tour of Wilberforce House Museum.

Tomorrow we will review the lecture and report on its reception.