My last formal event of 2022 was to attend the Lord Mayor’s carol service at St James’ Garlickhythe on Wednesday 21 December.

‘Hythe’ is the Saxon word for landing place. Garlic was landed somewhere between Queenhythe and nearby Vintners Hall and then sold on Garlic Hill. Hence, Garlickhythe. According to tradition, St James ‘The Great’ preached the Gospel in Spain and, following his martyrdom in Jerusalem in the year AD44, his body was taken to Santiago de Compostella where it remained undiscovered for almost 800 years.

The carol service was attended by the Lord Mayor Alderman Nicholas Lyons, the Lady Mayoress, the Sheriffs and their Consorts, and Masters and Mistresses from a range of Companies. As well as carols and readings, we were delighted by the wonderful singing of a Ukrainian choir, with Alderman Dr Sir Andrew Parmley at the organ. The Priest in Charge, Fr Tim Handley SSC gave a thoughtful address, and after the service we enjoyed wine and mince pies. It was a lovely occasion, and a fitting occasion to mark the final run up to Christmas.

Helen and I wish you all a very Happy New Year.