One of the perks of being Master of our Company is that you get to go to the Wine Committee lunches. This is the most popular committee, and members are, understandably, reluctant to move on. I was delighted to attend a lunch at the Boot and Flogger, a Davy’s wine bar.

 

Members of the Committee brought wines of their own for tasting from a 2014 vintage. This was followed by an excellent lunch accompanied by a tasting and very detailed explanation of the wines. I have to say that no one got full marks, but not for want of trying. I have a much greater understanding of what exactly goes on behind the scenes to make sure that our wines at all our functions remain at such a very high standard. Many thanks to the Wine Committee for their continued dedication.

 

 

In early November, I was joined by the Clerk at St Paul’s for a Garden of Remembrance service. This was a very moving occasion, attended by the Lord Mayor of London and included members of the armed forces. All 111 Livery Companies were represented, and we each placed a wooden cross in the churchyard. Lunch afterwards was at the Cutlers Hall which was very welcome and a chance to catchup with new friends. Later in the day, I attended a service of thanksgiving for the Lord Mayor at St Mary- le- Bow. This was a lovely service, with beautiful singing and music.

 

 

On to the Brick Awards later in the week. This is a wonderful evening, run by the Brick Development Association. It was a chance to see some of the finest examples of projects from around the world. Hosted by George Clarke (of the Home Show) , we had a chance to see just what can be done by our architects and developers, and how buildings are so much Better with Brick. In fact, our own Liverymen, C A Ian Wilson and Dean Degun were on the judging panel. I presented an award, which was quite an experience. All the proceeds from the raffle went to an inspirational charity, Band of Builders, who offer life changing projects and support for those and their families who work in the construction industry. Nigel and I had an excellent and most enjoyable evening and were shown great generosity by our hosts.

 

 

In contrast, my next event was the Silent Ceremony, which is the Admission of the Lord Mayor -Elect, Alderman Alistair King. This occurs as the name suggests, in almost total silence, except for the Declaration by the Lord Mayor-Elect. There is almost a balletic feeling to the procedure, as each member of the service moves around the area without any prompting. It was quite something to witness.

 

 

The Lord Mayor’s Parade took place the following day. This was the third, and most likely the last time I shall take part. in this. It is a truly amazing experience, and I think can only be appreciated when taking part. The day began with the Upper Warden, Renter Warden and CA Martin Reading- our banner carrier- joined by Nigel, Heather and Jann, for breakfast at Ironmongers Hall. We set off, and our supporters stood at the Ned to cheer us on.

 

I was fortunate enough to have been asked to form part of the Lord Mayor’s guard at the end of the parade, so I had to leave my team and wait for the Lord Mayor to arrive. It was a great honour, and one I shan’t forget. My Consort maybe had the easier time as he not only had a seat at Mansion House to watch the proceedings but was plied with champagne. We dined at the Mansion House afterwards.

 

 

The Consort and I attended a service for Remembrance Day at St Paul’s, where all the Livery Companies were invited to take part. We walked to the London Troops War Memorial at the Royal Exchange afterwards, where the Master Fruiterer placed a wreath on the Livery Companies behalf. We had a jolly good lunch at the Guildhall afterwards, with pudding served in mess tins. A rather nice touch.

 

After a rather hectic week, we were able to spend a few days in Venice, celebrating a family birthday. However, I was straight back for a busy week.

 

 

The Renter Warden and I were invited to the Youthbuild UK awards at the House of Commons. This is a remarkable event, which celebrates and supports disadvantaged young people within the construction industry and, with the collaboration of employers and organisations promotes excellence and inspires the younger generation. This really was a remarkable event, with so many young people having to cope – and overcome - hardships that most of us can only imagine.

 

A dash to Milton Keynes later that day for the Skillbuild Finals where the Consort was already waiting. We were guests of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and had a most enjoyable evening with them that evening. C A Ian Wilson, chair of the Craft Committee, C A Andy Rowlands and Liveryman Bob Richardson looked after us very well.

 

The next morning, we toured the stands and marvelled at the skill of such young people. In fact, although we had to leave before the winners were announced, Andy Rowland, chief judge, commented that the judging would be particularly difficult as the finalists were exceptional. It was also encouraging to see so many school children there visiting the various stands. While Nigel drove home, I was back on the train to London, having been invited to the Paviors’ Autumn Livery Dinner by their Master, Melanie Hampton, at Fishmongers’ Hall. I was made to feel most welcome and had an enjoyable evening. The speaker was Andy Milner, CEO of Amey.

 

 

The following week Ian Wilson, and I were invited to the Building Crafts College graduation and prizegiving ceremony at Carpenters’ Hall.

 

This really was a splendid occasion, with many graduates and their families attending. The prizes were presented by Dr Loyd Grossman, who, as imagined made a very eloquent and heartfelt speech. We were delighted that there were two winners of the Tylers and Bricklayers Award for Best Bricklayer. One, Danny Williams, was an employee of William Fuller. Interestingly, Danny had no idea that William was a Tyler and Bricklayer. It was also particularly special that the father of the other winner, Freddy Ford, also won the prize 20 years ago. As you can imagine there was huge pride in the family. A lovely way to end the week.

 

As briefly mentioned by me before, the Livery Pancake races feature in our calendar. As a result of my efforts last year, we have been invited to field a team at the races in 2025. I encourage anyone to help make up our team. There are many categories, and I’m sure you will hear more of them later. In the past we have managed to win- so no pressure!

 

Another busy, but very enjoyable month, and I look forward to seeing many of you at the Carol Service on December 12th. If you aren’t able to be there, then I wish you a very Happy Christmas.

 

Jenny Rolls - Master