This was the Esperanto Association of Britain's site from 2005 to 2018. You will find its current site at esperanto.org.uk.
Fine weather favoured the whole weekend. When not attending events at the Prince of Wales Hotel, members could enjoy the delights of Lord Street Shopping and dining, the long pier and other seaside pleasures - if not the far distant sea.
Dr. Paul Gubbins explained the reason for this lack of paddling places (in Esperanto, of course) in a lecture about the evolution of Southport. In his Buchanan Lecture, Prof. John Wells explained how the 'scouse' language developed in Liverpool, and demonstrated different pronunciations to be heard in the local region.
Two federations - Yorkshire & Humberside, and North West Federation - celebrated 100 years since foundation in 1908. Though divided by the Pennines, Lancashire and Yorkshire (and their neighbouring counties) co-operated to produce a splendid cake, iced appropriately with white and red roses. Displays by the two federations showed moments from their long history.
Roman Dobrzynski the Polish film director and author, was the guest lecturer. He spent recent months at the Esperanto Centre 'Bona Espero' in Brazil, and talked about the work done there, showing DVDs recorded on site.
Hilary Chapman presented a history of Esperanto music, assisted by Malcolm Jones and Stephen Thompson, with singing participation from the audience.
Sally Phillips starred on Sunday night on 'Desert Island Discs'. She talked about her travels and some memorable experiences, to the great enjoyment of her audience. She chose seven recordings to remind her of important people in her life.
At the close of a relaxed and enjoyable Congress, the flag for next year's event in Salisbury was handed to Jean Bisset, and followed by enthusiastic singing of 'La Espero'
Joyce Bunting
The congress venue and opening ceremony
Two federations celebrate their centenaries
Sally Phillips presents her 'Desert Island Discs'
International guest speaker Roman Dobrzynski with Terry Page
Photos: Jim Voiels and Paul Gubbins