On 02/02/2015 20:21, hownhelcymru wrote: > "It's a Catholic practice but not necessarily widespread. When you are > baptised you get a baptismal (saint's) name that may or may not be one > of your existing names. In some cases that name may get adopted as part > of the person's name in later life. I've no idea how common a practice > it is but it may explain why someone with no middle name at birth > acquires one in later life." > > As a life long catholic with scottish and irish roots I have not come across this practice. [That is why I asked whether this was a peculiarly English custom] > > I have not come across an instance of a person having a different baptismal name to his/ her registered name. > > A saint's name, chosen at Confirmation, has been added to secular documentation in some instances, but not as a rule. > Thank you for the information > > Helenor Jones > I thought it was an Irish practice, the Catholic side of my family comes from Cork. -- Graeme Wall This account not read, substitute trains for rail. Railway Miscellany at <http://www.greywall.demon.co.uk/rail>