Livery Company Awards at Carpenters Hall
Whilst the Tylers and Bricklayers have their own Craft Awards other Livery Companies do not and take part in the presentation of Master Certificate Scheme Awards and City & Guild Livery Company Prizes, I do think it important to support such events.
The Lord Mayor The Rt. Hon. Alderman Peter Estlin was able to take time out of his busy diary to present the awards which consisted of Livery Company Prizes, a Fellowship of City & Guilds to Walter Balmford MBE and Livery Companies Skills Council Master Certificates.
Guildhall School of Music and Drama
Just a few steps away from Moorgate Station is the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and it was a pleasure to meet up with Rachel Davis, their Trust Manager. Rachel is responsible for liasing with the Livery Companies who support the school. She was able to update me on the work of the School and to thank the Tylers and Bricklayers for their continued support of the arts and the School in particular.
The Consort lunches with the Lady Mayoress
It is fair to say that the Master’s year is busy for both me and Malcolm (hubby and Consort). Malcolm was delighted to accept an invitation to lunch with Lady Mayoress Lindy Estlin at Mansion House. Along with two other male Consorts Malcolm joined some Lady Consorts and representatives from several charities.
Before lunching the guests were taken on a short tour of Mansion House including the Old Ballroom and the “second bedroom” and after there was an opportunity to see some of the treasures housed at Mansion House.
The Master understands there was much discussion on plans for the Ironbridge Weekend and the Livery Dinner to be held at Mansion House the following week.
The work of the Almoner
Somewhat unexpectedly I benefitted from the duties of the Almoner when I suffered a flare up of a medical condition I suffer from. Sadly, I had to cancel two engagements, rest and wait for the antibiotics to do their magic. Much to my surprise and delight the post brought a delivery of flower with best wishes for a speedy recovery.
This was thanks to our Almoner Jenny Rolls who keeps up to date with “special” birthdays and events, illness amongst the Livery and keeps in contact with Liverymen who are no longer able to travel up to London for our events.
The simple gift of flowers, a card or a phone call goes a long way to cheer up those in need of a fillip and reminds us all that we are all part of a caring organisation.