Peter White Master's Diary 2017 - 18

Big Curry Lunch

11th April 2018

I attended the BIG CURRY LUNCH at the Guildhall to visit our splendid Framework Knitters' exhibition stand to raise funds for all members of the Armed Forces Charities and raise the profile of our wonderful Livery Company in the City. It stood proud next to the Fruiterers, Pewters, Gardeners, Broderers and six other Livery Stands. I believe our stall took over £1,000 for Charity. AND special thanks to Jonathan Pears and Susan Shield for manning the Stand from Dawn to Dusk and assembling it and taking it down. Also thanks to those Liverymen who supplied the socks and other knitted goodies, Peter and Liz Green were in attendance and very helpful. Liz managed sell Princess Eugenie two pairs of brightly coloured socks for her fiancé Jack - the Royal party were not allowed to accept gifts.

I had the pleasure of meeting Princess Eugenie at the reception and she was most interested in the romantic story of why/how James Lee invented the Framework Knitting machine. The Princess was charming and delightful in every way. The things we have to do for the Livery are often unexpected and great fun.

Feltmakers' Dinner

9th April 2018

At the invitation of their Master, His Honour Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC, and accompanied by our Clerk Shaun Mackaness, I attended the Dinner of the Worshipful Company of Feltmakers at Vintners Hall. It was a splendid affair with excellent food and fine speeches, none better than The Right Reverend Dr. Graham Tomlin, Bishop of Kensington who exhibited a fine sense of humour in proposing the toast to the Feltmakers' Company. I meet several old friends of the Framework Knitters' Company.

Lord Mayor Treloar Charity Talks

28th March 2018

Julia and I attended the Lord Mayor Treloar Charity Talks at Glaziers Hall. The panel of inspirational speakers included TV presenter Alastair Stewart OBE. The picture below shows the gold medal won by Paralympian Anne Usher MBE for paracanoeing at the 2016 Rio Paralympics after turning her life around in 4 years from her injury which prevented her riding a bike.

Old Bailey

21st March 2018

I was treated to a tour of the Old Bailey and dinner, hosted by Sherriff Neil Radcliffe and his wife, Emma.

United Guilds Service

16th March 2018

Julia and I attended The United Guilds Service at St Paul’s Cathedral. It was a wonderful service. City Livery and Church Ceremonies compliment each other so well. All Masters attending were expected to wear their gowns and full chain of office. We walked fully gowned after the service to Stationers Hall for a sumptuous luncheon. All the jewels on display outside St Pauls would have made a wonderful picking for street thieves on bikes/mopeds but luckily none were around. Thanks to Shaun for organising, and preparing seating plans for St Pauls and Stationers Hall, and thanks for support from Lower Warden Ian Grundy and Julia, and PM Linda Smith, PM Liz Green and Peter Green, Assistant Liz Fox, Liveryman Sue and Paul Bonnett, and lovely to have the company of Mary Mackaness as well. I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did.

Dinner at Mansion House

14th March 2018

Julia and I attended a splendid ‘Evening Dress with decorations’ Dinner at The Mansion House, hosted by The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress to meet Masters etc in his year.

Guildhall Garden

14th March 2018

My activities for the day began with a meeting with our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness and Past Master Linda Smith in the Guildhall. We then adjourned to admire the garden, set up by PM Paul Rockford of the Gardeners Livery in the Guildhall Courtyard in the presence of the Lord Mayor. It was in support of the Big Curry Lunch to mark the Centenary of the end of the First World War and raise funds for ABF The Soldiers Charity. The picture below shows Paul Rockford posing in the garden. Copies of letters from the Front were hung on trees and brought tears to my eyes. This tribute will remain on display in Guildhall Yard until Wednesday 11 April.

Informal evening with Charles Moore

8th March 2018

In our own capacity and as a break from Livery, Julia and I attended an informal evening when the Daily Telegraph’s Charles Moore interviewed Boris Johnson followed by break-out sessions.

Lunch on HQS Wellington and lecture at the RAF Club

7th March 2018

I attended lunch on board HQS Wellington at the invitation of the Master Mariner. In the evening, I attended the 8th Annual Security Lecture at The Royal Air Force Club in Piccadilly at the invitation of the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals.

Clothworkers' Master and Clerk's Dinner

6th March 2018

I attended the Master and Clerk’s Dinner at the invitation of The Clothworkers’ Company. The dinner was splendid including wonderful tasty wines, red and white wine, dessert wine, port and brandy or gin. The waiter asks you, "Do you dine with Alderman or Lady Cooper?" - meaning do you want a brandy(Alderman Cooper) or a Holland Gin (Lady Cooper? This traditional ceremony dates from 1664. According to legend, on St Thomas’s Eve one Alderman Cooper collapsed with apoplexy. Dosed with brandy by his anxious hosts, he died. The following day, Lady Cooper is said to have reprimanded the Company’s Clerk, saying that had the Alderman been given his customary Holland Gin he would have recovered. In order that the incident would never be repeated she gave the Company money to provide Holland Gin at future dinners as an alternative to brandy or as a remedy.

Derek Melluish Memorial Lecture

5th March 2018

With many other Livery Masters I attended the 15th Annual Derek Melluish Memorial Lecture at the Church of St Lawrence Jewry, Guildhall Yard. Introduced by Ms Louise Grainger, chair of the City of London Guide Lecturers Association, Dr Jane Siddell an archaeologist and Inspector of Ancient Monuments with Historic England gave an excellent address. The event was a sell out.

Tacitus Lecture

22nd February 2018

I attended the 31st World Traders Tacitus Lecture on 'Cyber-Trade; will AI displace or enhance our work’ given by Dr Nathan Myhrvold who was formally Chief Technology Officer at Microsoft. Accompanying me were PM Linda Smith, PM Liz Green and Peter Green. The Guildhall was practically full with an estimated 500 in attendance.

Livery Schools Link Showcase

6th February 2018

I started my day's activities in Cheapside House by signing four forms for Immediate Past Master Liz Green’s proposal to stand for Non-Aldermanic Sheriff. This was followed by visiting the Framework Knitters' stand set up in the Guildhall for the Livery Schools Link Showcase event for students. I thought that our stand compared very well with others there. 

The mechanical Griswold attracted a lot of attention and even had the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress tried it out. Well done to all who contributed to the Framework Knitters' successful display.

Then I was given a lift by the Management Consultants to their venue, Coventry University London Campus, for their Technical Symposium lecture about ‘Reputational Risk’ given by Anthony Fitzsimmons who wrote the CASS business school report ‘Road to Ruin’ . About 150 attended the lecture and enjoyed the hospitality afterwards. I met several Masters who had attended Lord Mayor Treloar’s open day on the previous day before on 6th Feb.

Visit to the Globe Theatre

20th January 2018

Following the previous evening's Winter Dinner, members of the Company and guests visited the Globe Theatre for a behind the scenes tour with lunch at the Real Greek Restaurant on the South Bank next door. Congratulations to Paul Bethel for another fine Social event.

Winter Banquet

19th January 2018

Following lunch and our Court meeting in the afternoon, I presided at our Winter Banquet at Painters Hall. Our beautiful harpist, Ms Margaret Watson, provided delightful background music during dinner as well as a wonderful musical interlude with her own amusing commentary - who will forget her rendition of Elvis Presley on the harp? Following dinner, I was pleased to present our Treasurer, Matthew Ellis, with the David Briers Award for services to the Livery as well as two Yeomanry Awards to Sgt Jamie Barrett and Cpl Perry Smith. The toast to our Guests was proposed by Assistant Elizabeth Fox with the reply by our main guest speaker, the Rt Hon Chris Grayling MP who proposed the toast to the Company.

A personal highlight for me was to exhibit the Lord Mayor's Charity portrait of me by portrait artist, Ms Eleanor Damont Harris who was a guest at our dinner.

Blacksmiths' Luncheon

18th January 2018

Accompanied by our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness, I was the guest of the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths' Epiphany Court Luncheon at Saddlers Hall. Mr Jash Joshi was the Prime Warden.

Prime Masters Dinner

17th January 2018

Julia and I attended a black tie Prime Masters Dinner at the National Liberal Club. About 100 dined and we enjoyed renewing acquaintances.

Lord Mayor's Children's Party

6th January 2018

My wife Julia attended the Lord Mayor's Children's Party with our granddaughter, Florence. This splendid event took place at the Mansion House where the Lord Mayor played host to over 400 children aged from 5 to 9, most accompanied by an adult. A wonderful time was had by all and Florence loved every minute of it.

Carol Service at St Martin-within-Ludgate

14th December 2017

The picture below shows some of the 24 Liverymen and guests who attended the carol service at St Martin-within-Ludgate church. The Rt Rev Dr Stephen Platten presided. Afterwards we slipped through a secret, new-made door in the church wall, straight into the Stationers Hall garden. We had a splendid luncheon hosted by Stationers Hall. We were the most senior Livery Company present and so I was asked to propose a toast to 'the Stationers Livery Co. and their Master' on behalf of the guests. It seemed a very popular well-attended event and I recommend we continue with it next year.

Residents' lunch

9th December 2017

With Wardens Sheila Turner and Ian Grundy and other members of the Company I attended the annual lunch at the Cottage Homes for our residents. A suitably festive time was had by all.

The Royal Yeomanry Officers' Dinner

6th December 2017

In the morning I attended at Painter Stainers Hall with our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness to discuss details of our forthcoming Winter Dinner with Mr Nick Levens, Managing Director of Life Kitchen, who entertained us to a buffet lunch.

This was followed in the evening by The Royal Yeomanry Officers' Dinner Club Dinner at the Cavalry and Guards Club, Piccadilly, hosted by Col. Robert Boyle DL, which I attended accompanied by Shaun. Others present to support the Squadron's Dinner, included Past Master George Turner, Liveryman Nick Turner, Past Master Ms Linda Smith and Mr David Bentata and Liveryman Julian Ellis. The officers made us feel very welcome and it was a very convivial evening.

Worshipful Company of Weavers Livery Dinner

5th December 2017

Accompanied by our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness, I attended a delightful Livery Dinner held by the Worshipful Company of Weavers at Vintners Hall.

Prime Masters Inaugural Dinner

24th November 2017

I attended the Prime Masters Inaugural Dinner at Wax Chandlers Hall at which plans were announced for future meetings and a first trip to Romania next year. It all looks promising!

St Cecilia Service, Lord Mayor's address, 'Dodgy Data'

22nd November 2017

A busy day!

In the morning I attended a service at Westminster Cathedral for Saint Cecilia for the Help Musicians UK charity. This was followed by a working lunch with Julia, Shaun Mackaness and Immediate past Master Liz Green.

In the afternoon I attended a meeting at the Mansion House with other Masters invited for the Lord Mayor's address informing the livery of his plans for the coming year and extending the appeal for consistency over next three years.

In the evening I attended a lecture by Sir David Spiegelhalter on 'dodgy data in the news, how to spot it, and how to stop it' organised by the Actuaries' Company with supper in Staple Inn Hall, Holborn. Very good.

CCLA and Marylebone Executive Search lecture at Drapers Hall

20th November 2017

I attended the third annual  Power, Reputation and Influence lecture of CCLA and Marylebone Executive Search in Drapers Hall. The lecture, given by the Rt Hon the Lord Mark Malloch-Brown KCMG, was entitled 'Uncertainty: The New International Norm' - offering a far-reaching and somewhat depressing view of the near future. I met there Nick and Fiona Woolf and several Livery Company Masters, including John Mansfield, Master of the Fire Fighters Livery.

Silent Ceremony

10th November 2017

I attended the traditional ‘Silent Ceremony’ at Guildhall for the swearing in of the 690th Lord Mayor, Charles Bowman, for 2017– 18. The Ceremony started with a full procession of the City’s ‘great and good’. The Guildhall was full for this interesting event, with allocated seating. The picture below shows the inside of Guildhall as the Ceremony began.

Installation of Master Glover

7th November 2017

With our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness, I attended St Margaret’s Church, Lothbury for the Installation Service of the Master Glover-Elect, Mr Alvan Seth-Smith, by Master Glover Mr Jonathan Crossman MBE. The Glovers Court and consorts sat in the chancellery whilst the ceremony was enacted. The Church was full. After the service having put my coat under my seat for a quick getaway to the reception in Drapers Hall, I left it behind, so eventually I was practically last out of the Church having had to recover it. The ceremony was followed by the Glovers’ Installation Luncheon at Drapers Hall. 235 attended. I sat next to the Glovers’ Renter Warden, Rodney Jagelman and his wife, Sue. I congratulate Rodney for a fine speech to the retiring Master. Rodney is in line to be Master Glover next year. I was presented with a fine pair of leather gloves which fitted me exactly. The picture below shows me with Master Glover Mr Alvan Seth-Smith at Drapers Hall.

Remembrance Service in St Paul’s Churchyard

6th November 2017

On a lovely sunny morning and following breakfast in the Crypt, with our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness and most other Masters, I attended a Remembrance Service in St Paul’s Courtyard to lay a ‘poppy cross’ on behalf of the Framework Knitters.

Following the Remembrance Service Shaun and I repaired to the Watermen’s Hall for a lunch given by The Cook and The Butler Event Company for Masters and Clerks.

Later in the day I enjoyed tea at the City Livery Club where I chatted with other Liverymen whilst waiting for next event, a Service of Thanksgiving for the Lord Mayor at St Stephens Walbrook. The preacher was Rev’d Canon Roger Royle who challenged the City to be ‘more inclusive and consider that the Thanksgiving Service includes the Lady Mayoress in its title’ in the future! Winding up the day, I attended an Autumn Reception hosted by the London Air Ambulance at the Honourable Artillery Company. Very interesting speeches. The picture below shows me with our Immediate Past Master, Liz Green and supporters of her campaign as a candidate for election as non-Aldermanic Sheriff in 2018.

Lady Mayoress’s Reception at Mansion House

2nd November 2017

Julia and I attended a Reception at Mansion House given by the Lady Mayoress for her to say goodbye to people she had met in the Livery movement. The picture below shows the Lady Mayoress giving her address.

Social Visit to Charterhouse

28th October 2017

For the day following our Banquet a visit to Charterhouse was organised. We benefited from a wonderful tour guide and the tour was most interesting. Our visit was followed by lunch at The Sutton Arms in nearby Carthusian Street. Thanks to Diana de Froment for organising.

Framework Knitters Annual Banquet

27th October 2017

The Company’s annual banquet was held at Fishmongers Hall and a splendid evening was enjoyed by all. The vocal group, Instant Sunshine, were an instant hit and their specially written knitting song is available on the members section of our website. Congratulations to ALL our Award winners and bon voyage and thanks to Canon Michael Rusk who is leaving the Cottage Homes for a position in Switzerland.

Consorts Lunch at Tallow Chandlers Hall

26th October 2017

Julia attended a lunch for consorts at Tallow Chandlers Hall and afterwards visited Bottlescrew to finalise her Mistress’s November Lunch details for our Company’s Livery Ladies and guests.

Worshipful Company of Woolmen Civic Dinner

25th October 2017

Our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness and I were guests of The Master Woolmen, Christopher Thierry, for their Civic Dinner held at The Clothworkers Hall in the presence of The Lord Mayor and both Sheriffs. A lovely evening in very convivial company.

Luncheon and trial at the Old Bailey

18th October 2017

I was pleased to accept an invitation from Sheriff Neil Redcliffe for luncheon in the Central Criminal Court at Old Bailey with all 14 judges presiding there. The only other guests were Nick Bryant property developer, Lord Davies of Abersoch (Mervyn Davies) politician, and Brian Hardcastle, a teacher and Senior Master of Forest School. I was only Liveryman invited. I was seated next to the Recorder, Judge Nicholas Hilliard, and Her Honour Judge Sarah Munro. Both were charming. Afterwards, I was allowed to sit in on a Court in session whilst the prosecution was summing up. Absolutely fascinating, and definitely a highlight of my year so far. The picture below shows me with Lord Davies, Brian Hardcastle and Neil Redcliffe.

Tobacco Pipe Makers and Tobacco Blenders Annual Banquet

16th October 2017

Julia and I attended The Worshipful Company of Tobacco Pipe Makers and Tobacco Blenders' Annual Banquet at The Mansion House in the presence of The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. The Lord Mayor was his usual witty self and seemed to be getting into holiday mood with his term of office ending within four weeks. 190 attended and our Beadle, Mr Jamie Wallis, was in good voice. I noticed some new faces amongst the Livery Masters who had just taken over. It will be a pleasure to welcome their Master and Mistress Ralph and Maureen Edmondson to our Banquet on 27th October.

Musicians' Company Evensong

4th October 2017

Upper Warden, Sheila Turner and I attended evensong at St Paul's Cathedral. The event was hosted by the Musicians' Company.

Painters’ Decorative and Fine Arts Society Exhibition

3rd October 2017

I attended a reception and private view of the Painters’ Decorative and Fine Arts Society 28th Exhibition.

Election of the Lord Mayor

29th September 2017

My day began with breakfast in the Members Dining Club at Guildhall Members Club, after which I processed with other Masters from the Crypts to the Guild Church of St Lawrence Jewry for the divine Service. Later in the morning I processed with other Masters from Crypts to the Great Hall for Common Hall where Charles Bowman was elected as the 690th Lord Mayor of London in succession to Andrew Parmley. He will take office on 10th November following the so-called ‘Silent Ceremony’. My morning concluded with lunch with other Framework Knitters at the Stationers Hall.

National Army Museum

27th September 2017

I visited the National Army Museum with our Gallant (i.e. ex-military) Clerk, Shaun Mackaness and six or seven other Framework Knitters. Our Livery was well represented. The Director-General, Ms Janice Murray welcomed us, and proudly showed us round. The evening reception included a walk round the new museum which had been opened by the Queen in March 2017.

Social Committee meeting

25th September 2017

I attended a meeting of the Company's Social Committee at the Guildhall.

Treloar's Gala Dinner

21st September 2017

The Framework Knitters took a table of 10 at the Lord Mayor's Treloar’s Gala Dinner at the Mansion House. Julia and I attended along with Immediate Past Master Liz Green and Peter Green, Suzan and Dennis Woods, John and Marigold Whittaker and Shaun and Mary Mackaness. On another table I noticed Susan and Rodney Jagelman. The Treloar Trust is a fine charity supporting some of the UK’s most complex physically disabled young people and their families - 98% are wheelchair users and 80% have little or no communicable speech. The dinner raised £74,000 for the charity on the night. 

Ezra Lecture, the Fuellers’ 13th Annual Energy Lecture

20th September 2017

I attended a most interesting lecture - the Ezra Lecture, the Fuellers’ 13th Annual Energy Lecture, entitled Fossil Fuels and the Energy Mix, given by The Rt. Hon Lord Deben (John Gummer), Chairman of the Committee on Climate Change and former cabinet minister. It was supported by CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP in their splendid offices in Cannon Street, followed by a reception.

Worshipful Company of Farmers Luncheon

18th September 2017

I attended the Worshipful Company of Farmers' luncheon at the Farmer and Fletchers Hall with our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness. The speaker was Mr Allan Wilkinson, Head of Agri-Foods at HSBC Bank plc.

Membership Committee meeting and Inter Livery Walk

14th September 2017

Another busy day for me ...

Along with 50 other Masters and dignitaries, Upper Warden, Sheila Turner and I (suitably robed and badged) took part in the 9-mile Inter-Livery Walk visiting 40 Livery Halls in the City and taking on breakfast at HQS Wellington and tea at Fishmongers Hall.

As if this was not enough ... at 5 pm Clerk, Shaun Mackaness and I attended a meeting of the Company's Membership Committee, chaired by Liveryman Nick Turner, at the Calvary and Guards Club in Piccadilly. This was followed by attendance at a fund raising for the Red Cross. Red Cross President, Lady Lamport invited Shaun and me to a private viewing of artwork by Jeremy Houghton, former artist in residence for HM The Queen.  

Leicester Weekend

8th - 10th September 2017

I enjoyed a very full and busy weekend with the Company in Leicester.

On Friday 8th September I attended the Company's Golf Day and presented prizes at the golf dinner in the evening.

Saturday 9th September began early with my attending the Ceremony of the Socks at Wigston Framework Knitters Museum - I duly presented a pair of socks to the Mayor in payment for Museum's annual rent.

Following the Ceremony of the Socks, I returned from Wigston to the Company's Hall in Oadby where I hosted lunch for members of the Court, followed by our Court meeting which I chaired.

The day concluded happily with the Company's Dinner at The Grand Hotel in Leicester. 13 of our Cottage Homes residents were also welcomed.

Sunday began with attendance at the Framework Knitters annual aervice at St Peter’s Church in Oadby. I read the second lesson and participated in the Act of Rededication of the Livery.

The picture below shows (from the left) the Venerable Dr Tim Stratford, Archdeacon of Leicester, the Deputy Mayor of Oadby and Wigston, Cllr David Carter, me and my Chaplain, the Very Revd. Dr Derek Hole lining up to greet members of the congregation after the Service. 

The weekend concluded with lunch with our Cottage Home residents in Corah Hall at Oadby - owing to inclement weather we were forced to substitute an indoor lunch for our traditional barbecue.

Spirit tasting at Vintners Hall

26th July 2017

I attended a spirit tasting hosted by The Worshipful Company of Distillers at Vintners Hall. I have never seen so many different branded bottles of spirits in my life!

Defence and National Security Lecture

20th July 2017

In the evening our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness, and I attended The Lord Mayor’s Lecture on Defence and National Security at the Mansion House given by the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Cressida Dick CBE QPM. The lecture was followed by a short reception.

Service of Dedication of Knights Bachelor

20th July 2017

Accompanied by our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness, I attended the Annual Service of Dedication of Knights Bachelor in St Faith's Chapel in the Crypt of St Paul's Cathedral Knights Service followed by a reception at Apothecaries Hall. The picture below shows me and Shaun with Sir Tony Baldry, Knight of The Imperial Society of Knight Bachelor at the reception.

City Churches Walk

19th July 2017

Julia and I took part in the City Churches Walk, starting from the crypt in St Paul's and taking in 10 Wren-designed churches in the City of London with lunch at St Lawrence Jewry, and tea at All Hallows by the Tower. The picture below shows us dressed for the part. Also shown is a picture of Assyrian baked brick with ancient cuneiform inscriptions in St Vedast-alias-Foster on Foster Lane.

Food and wine tasting

17th July 2017

Accompanied by my wife, Julia and Shaun and Mary Mackaness, I dutifully attended at the Grand Hotel in Leicester for a tasting of food and wine in anticipation of the Company's Leicester dinner in September. It's tough, but someone has to do it!

Sheriffs' and Recorders' Fund AGM

10th July 2017

Our Clerk, Shaun Mackaness, and I attended the Sheriffs' and Recorders' Fund AGM at the AGM. This is a Charity supported by Livery Companies. We heard amazing testimony from two female warders at Brixham Prison, and from a reformed prisoner, Keaton, and from the Governor of ISIS prison. The picture below shows our Clerk in the dock at the Old Bailey - the smile suggests that he feels rather at home ...

City Music Foundation Beerfest

6th July 2017

A lovely sunny, summer's day found me in the Guildhall Yard for the City Music Foundation Beerfest.

Tour and Lunch for Mistresses at Cutlers Hall

30th June 2017

Julia attended the tour and lunch for Mistresses at Cutlers Hall.

Common Hall Shrieval Election

26th June 2017

I attended Common Hall for the election of the Sheriffs at Guildhall. The picture below shows me in the Guildhall crypt with Mr Soar, Clerk of the Chartered Architects, robing for the Election prior to processing into the Common Hall ceremony.

Coffee Morning for Consorts

24th June 2017

Julia attended a coffee morning for consorts at Guildhall, hosted by Past Mistress Chartered Accountants’, during the Shrieval Election at Common Hall, followed by lunch at Stationers Hall with the Framework Knitters.

Thames Cruise

24th June 2017

On the day following our Summer Dinner members of the Company and guests enjoyed a cruise on the Thames on the Thames cruiser, Harmony. The picture below shows Framework Knitters enjoying a fine private lunch in the Chelsea Room on board the Harmony. The weather was fine and views of the City and riverside buildings from the river were breathtaking. Thanks to Susan Shield for organising.

Summer Court and Dinner

23rd June 2017

The hottest day of the year so far made it shirt-sleeve order for our Court meeting at Stationers Hall. The picture below shows me enjoying a cup of tea with Simon Burrows after the Court Meeting in the garden at Stationers Hall.

Following the Court meeting, a splendid time was had by all at our Summer Dinner at Stationers Hall. The pictures below show Julia and me with Guest of Honour PM Water Conservator Roger North and his wife Christine.

Jailed & Bailed

19th June 2017

On a record-breaking hot day I was ‘Jailed and Bailed’ at the Tower of London in aid of charity! The Framework Knitters Company raised a magnificent total of £1001.25 for the British Red Cross. It was warm work in robes!! But worth it – a total of £45,000 was raised on the day.

Cottage Home Residents Annual Outing

15th June 2017

On 16th June I hosted the Cottage Homes Residents annual outing, which this year visited Coton Manor in Northamptonshire, a lovely country house with a spectacular garden, for lunch. The weather was warm and fine with the Gardens at their best. Flamingos graced the lawns and ponds providing an exotic, magical feeling to the day. Special thanks to Julia, Under Warden Ian Grundy, Helen Woolfe, Julian and Pam Rose who helped me host the event, push the wheelchairs and provide extra care when needed to make it a special day for the Residents.

Luncheon party for consorts

14th June 2017

Whilst I was hard at work on the golf course, my wife, Julia attended a luncheon party for 16 hosted by the Upper Bailiff’s Lady of the Weavers Company.

Horners Golf Day

14th June 2017

I attended the Horners Golf Day, teaming up with George Turner, Liz Green and Martin Madden to represent the Framework Knitters. This is a Trophy we have won in the past. This year we scored a very creditable 83 points to finish just out of the prizes. We presented the Master Horner, Alison Gill, with a pair of our famous socks.

Dinner at Cutlers' Hall

12th June 2017

I attended a dinner with 80 other guests including Alderman Sir Michael Bear, Past Lord Mayor, held at the Cutlers' Hall by Deputy Richard Regan, OBE, Chairman of the City of London’s Livery Committee to mark the retirement of former Committee Chairman, Nigel Pullman from the Committee. Nigel is also a Past Sheriff of the City of London and a Past Master of The Worshipful Company of Leathersellers. It was a lively affair and Nigel was in good form.

Ironbridge Weekend

9th - 11th June 2017

The Ironbridge Weekend is a 'must' for Masters, presenting the opportunity to socialise with other Masters in the same year as well as to see the famous Gorge and to explore Ironbridge's heritage. 97 Masters attended with the Lord Mayor and both Sheriffs - Peter Estlin and William Russell came for the Saturday night Dinner. We tried to meet as many Masters as we could and everyone was sociable. The weather held up well for us. The picture below is a classic view of Ironbridge to accompany our visit.

Livery Breakfast at Mercers Hall

6th June 2017

I attended a pan-Livery Breakfast Meeting at Mercers Hall facilitated by the Master Mercer to agree next steps and formation of working parties on how best to coordinate Livery activities and communicate with the outside world. 70 Masters/Representatives attended.

Buckingham Place Garden Party

1st June 2017

I was privileged to attend a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, accompanied by my daughter, Michelle, and the Vice Lord Lieutenant of County Antrim, Richard Reade and his wife, Pam. I had the pleasure of meeting several other Livery Masters over tea. A fun day - with no rain!!

Elizabeth Fry Lecture

24th May 2017

Along with 200 other guests including other Livery Masters and family descendants of Elizabeth Fry, I attended the Elizabeth Fry lecture given by Sheriff Peter Estlin in the Grand Hall of the Central Criminal Court - known as The Old Bailey. The picture below shows me handing a cheque to Sheriff Peter Estlin to help raise funds for the Elizabeth Fry Charity which supports offenders released on probation as well as ex-offenders and their dependants.

Pewter Live 2017

24th May 2017

I spent a a most enjoyable day at the Pewter Live 2017 event of the Worshipful Company of Pewterers at Pewterers' Hall. The event is now in its 29th year. I was privileged to see a wonderful exhibition of pewter craftsmanship. The picture below shows me being welcomed by Master Pewterer, Rod Kent.

Tour of V&A

22nd May 2017

Julia attended a private tour of the Victoria & Albert Museum, looking at jewellery and costumes, hosted by Past and Future Mistresses of the Chartered Accountants, followed by a lunch for 30.

Frezenberg Memorial Service

21st May 2017

Julia and I attended the Frezenberg Memorial Service in Newtown Linford, followed by ceremony at Memorial and lunch at Welbeck College. The pictures below show me with at the Memorial in Bradgate Park with Colonel Robert Martin and Colonel Bertie Boyle, and me with members of the squadron and cadets.

Prince Arthur Cup golf

18th May 2017

I represented the Framework Knitters with Capt. Tony Jarvis, Adrian Keene and Liz Green in the Prince Arthur Cup played at Walton Heath. Great fun, got soaked, and our team played well enough to be invited to return next year.

Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alia Wire Workers Court Dinner

16th May 2017

I attended the May Court Dinner of the WC of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers at the invitation of their Master, Tony Steinthal (pictured below between fellow Masters, Eur Ing Richard Groome Engineers (left) and Charles Miller Tobacco Pipe Maker and Tobacco Blender). The Barbers Hall was the smart venue. About 110 dined.

Simon Dow Stables

14th May 2017

Visit to Simon Dow (Racing Trainer) Stables containing many winners. Lunch at the Rubbing House Pub.

Gala Dinner

13th May 2017

The Master's Weekend concluded with with a gala champagne reception and dinner at the RAC Club in Surrey with 47 attendees.

Hampton Court

13th May 2017

Visit to Hampton Court with guided tour and lunch. Further tour in the afternoon.

RAC Golf Club

12th May 2017

Visit to the RAC Golf Club to see off the competition followed by a visit to Denbies Wine Estate for a train tour of the vines estate and a winery tour including the wine vats. 58 sat down for dinner in the evening in the Royal Box in the Queens Stand at Epsom Race Course. Champagne was served on the balcony giving unrivalled views of the whole Derby course.

Dinner party for Past Masters

11th May 2017

Dinner party for some Past Masters as a prelude to the Master’s Weekend.

View Day at St Bart's

10th May 2017

This evening I attended Evensong at the Priory Church of St Bartholomew The Great.

After Evensong we processed back to the Great Hall at St Bartholomew's Hospital for an evening reception. I met longstanding friend, Sir Marcus Setchell, who is Chairman of The Friends of The Great Hall and Archive of St. Bartholomew's Hospital and leading the fundraising effort for the restoration of the Great Hall.

Festival for Sons and Friends of the Clergy

9th May 2017

At 5.00 pm I attended the 363rd Festival Service for Sons and Friends of the Clergy at St Paul's Cathedral, processing with around 83 other Livery Masters. I met Immediate Past Master Liz Green and Past Master Jeremy Beachell who were also attending the service. 

Later in the evening I attended Merchant Taylor's Hall for the Festival Dinner for Sons of the Clergy, with the Most Reverend and Right Honourable the Lord Archbishop of York in attendance.

25th Anniversary Dinner of the Worshipful Company of Information technologists

4th May 2017

Shaun and I attended a most impressive Guildhall celebration of 25 years Anniversary by the 100 numbered Livery Company. Held in the presence of the Lord Mayor, several Late Lord Mayors. 83 current Livery masters were present, and over 700 present in total.

I sat with Julia Hutt, Master Scriveners, Bill Beadles Master Founder, and Michael Grant PM Information Technologists. The Star Wars theme was followed throughout. Exhausting!

The Lord Mayor's Ascot Race Day

3rd May 2017

Julia and I attended the Lord Mayor's Race Day at Ascot. We sat next to Yasmin and Capt Flavian D'Sousa Master Mariner, Sara and Commander Peter Mosse RN Master Broderer, and Christopher Hallam Master Chartered Secretary. A bitterly cold day outside meant most people stayed to watch the racing on TV.

Cobham Lecture

26th April 2017

I attended the Cobham lecture hosted by the Master, Honourable Company of Air Pilots, Capt. Chris Spurrier. Given by Tristan Crawford, CEO Aeralis Ltd about a DART JET project to design and build a new flight trainer. A very bold project and very interesting. It was held at the Royal Aeronautical Society.

Consorts' lunch

25th April 2017

The Mistress attended a Consorts' Lunch hosted by the Master’s Consort, Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers, Mrs Hannah Constantinidi whose sole aim was to enjoy a convivial time without the presence of their Masters. Julia met Past Consort Julia Beachell there and a mutual friend Past Mistress, Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers, Mrs Jacquie Waller. The lunch was held in the magnificent Chetwode Room of the Calvary & Guards Club.

Reception at Mansion House

18th April 2017

Attended a reception at Mansion House hosted by the Lord Mayor in the Egyptian Room to launch the Institute of Apprentices. 500 attended, including many Apprentices.

Guided Tour of Nomura London HQ

12th April 2017

The Mistress accepted an invitation from The WC Environmental Cleaners for a tour followed by a champagne afternoon tea to raise money for their charitable Trust.

Social Committee Visit to Sir John Soane's Museum

8th April 2017

This was formerly the home of the neo-classical architect John Soane. It holds many drawings and models of Soane’s projects, with paintings drawings and antiquities to help his students. It reminded me of Rembrandt’s house in Amsterdam where he had also assembled various artefacts to help him and his students. Lunch was taken in The Ship Tavern nearby. Many thanks to Susan Shield for organising.

My Installation Dinner at Vintners' Hall

7th April 2017

We had a full house of 145 attending Vintner’s Hall. It was a most enjoyable evening. Our guest Speaker was His Honour Judge Jeff Blackett. His speech was most amusing. We were entertained by Ms Olivia Moore, a talented violinist who played traditional Haydn and classical Indian music.