Matthew Ellis Master's Diary 2024-25

Brigantes Winter Gathering – Cutlers Hall Sheffield

Friday 13th December

The Brigantes were formed in 2014 to cater for Liverymen who live in the North of England. This year over 200 guests met at the wonderful Cutlers Hall in Sheffield, this hall matches almost anything that you’ll find in London, there sure is some money in stainless steel! Over half of the 111 Livery companies were represented and I am proud to say that it was another strong turnout by the FWK’s. Following a delicious meal we made our way across the street to Sheffield Cathedral where we were treated to a Christmas Concert performed by Sheffield Cathedral Choir and Ensemble 360. Truly magnificent. Next year Brigantes will be meeting for their annual Breakfast in Scarborough on Thursday 24^th July and I would urge all Livery to come and see what it’s all about whether you live north of Watford Gap or not!

WC Stationers Annual Carol Concert and Lunch

Wednesday 11th December

As a peripatetic company we don’t hold our own carol service so for the last few years we have joined the WC of Stationers at their beautiful church, St Martin in Ludgate. We had a record turnout of 25 FWK’s this year and were joined by Masters and representatives from the WC Furniture Makers, Constructors and Turners with all visiting Masters reading a lesson in the service. The service saw a number of beautiful carols and the Stationers choir was wonderful with three well-rehearsed pieces.

It is a 30 second walk from the church into the newly refurbished Stationers Hall where we partook of a champagne reception before being called into the Hall for a delicious Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Thanks go to The Stationers for looking after us so well and particularly to all The FWK’s for your wonderful support. Hopefully next year we can beat the record.

Cottage Home Christmas Lunch

Saturday 7th December

Unfortunately due to illness the turnout was down this year but even so we had 28 Residents and Cottage Home Committee Livery for the annual Christmas lunch held in Corah Hall. It was particularly pleasing to welcome Past Master Emeritus David Miller with his wife Diane who hadn’t been to a function for a number of months.

The Hall had been decorated beautifully and the food from local restaurateur Zeph’s was absolutely delicious and besides Christmas lunch always tastes better when you have a paper hat on. After lunch there was just time for three quick games of Bingo to play for three boxes of chocolates and this time the Livery were allowed to win! The final score was Livery 2- Residents 1.

Thanks go to everyone who decorated the Hall, the caterers and of course our Cottage Homes Manager, Nettie, for all the hard work she has put in.

Norwich Uni visit

Tuesday 26th Novemeber

I haven’t generally diary noted my ongoing commitment to the committees that operate throughout the year within our Livery but yesterday I visited Norwich Uni as part of the Education Committee. Annually, the committee, made up of around 20 Liverymen and women, visit around 25 Universities at about this time of year to interview a total or around 60 students for our bursaries and awards programme. Norwich Uni is relatively new to our panel and it was important to me that I returned there this year. I was with Liveryman Nick Traylen and we met and interviewed four fabulous students all hoping to win an award from The Livery. This is such a crucial part of our charitable giving not just to help students with mentoring and even awards but also because hopefully these students one day will become Liverymen and women in their own right. Our thanks go to the tutors at all the universities for their amazing commitment and hard work.

Briefing by The Lord Mayor

Wednesday 20th November

Accompanied by The Clerk and The Upper Warden we were invited to Mansion House for a briefing by The Lord Mayor, Alderman Alistair King. He laid out his plans for the coming year as well as the events he plans to hold. The Lord Mayors Appeal is a charity that aims to create A Better City for All – making the City a better place to work and live. We were also updated with the latest results from a Livery survey on charitable donations which revealed that last year the Livery movement gave an enormous £80 million to charity.

The evening was somewhat spoilt as The Upper Warden and I boarded a packed tube to get back to St Pancras. With standing room only and despite having looked at us both, a young girl very kindly offered ME her seat rather than The Upper Warden, who is considerably older than me!! 

Festival of St Cecilia at St Pauls

Wednesday 20th November

Accompanied by the Clerk, The Upper Warden and Nettie I attended the wonderful celebration of music at St Pauls in celebration of St Cecilia, a Roman noblewoman who was martyred for her Christian faith around 230 AD. The service raises money for the charity “Help Musicians” and three choirs (St Pauls Cathedral Choir, Westminster Abbey Choir and Westminster Cathedral Choir) combined to bring us some beautiful anthems as well as a special performance by Isata Kanneh-Mason. This service is free to all Liverymen and next year takes place in Westminster Abbey on Wednesday 19^th November 2025, please do pencil it into your diaries.

Launch of the lord Mayors Big Curry Lunch

Monday 11th November

Accompanied by The Clerk I attended the launch of the 2025 Big Curry Lunch (BCL) at The Library in Guildhall. Event organiser Michael Hockney introduced the two guest speakers, firstly The Lord Mayor who laid out his plans and most importantly gave the fundraisers his target for the year. Each Lord Mayor wants to beat his predecessor and the target for 2025 is £425,000. The funds for the BCL go towards the three national service charities – The Army Benevolent Fund, The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. The second speaker was Air Cdre Phil Wardlow who explained just how important the funds were to the individual charities.

The event is on 10^th April 2025 and takes place in the Great Hall at Guildhall, it is open to anyone and tickets will be available from January, simply contact the Clerk if you would like to go.

City Remembrance Service at St Pauls

Sunday 10th November

On Remembrance Sunday a service is held in St Pauls for the Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs, the Aldermen and the Livery Companies with other key figures in The City to include a two minute silence. Traditionally The Lord Mayor does not get involved in The Cenotaph Remembrance because he or she lays a wreath at the War Memorial at The Royal Exchange which is just outside his front door in The City so following the service we parade down Cheapside to the Royal Exchange where a number of wreaths are laid including one on behalf of the Livery Companies by The Master of the WC of Fruiterers.

Red Cross Exhibition

Friday 8th November

Having raised money for the Red Cross through The Escape from The Tower as well as the annual Red Cross Bazaar I was invited to attend to a unique and immersive private exhibition showcasing the work of The Red Cross supporting people in crisis. The “Here for Humanity – resilience in action” exhibition was superb and took place at the Stables in Covent Garden. It gave a powerful glimpse into the lives of those impacted by crisis across the globe and a chance to discover first hand how our support enables The Red Cross to help communities prepare, respond and recover when their lives are turned upside down.

The Lord Mayors Show

Saturday 9th November

Having installed our new Lord Mayor it was time to celebrate. The Lord Mayors show goes back some 800 years and as a Livery we have entered a number of times recently with our faithful “Kirby & West” milk float. This time I was joined by my Wardens and Clerk as we linked up with The Senior Livery Companies (those numbered between 1 and 77) donned our gowns and badges and walked with 33 other Senior Livery Companies. Each time I have been fortunate to take part I find it's not my feet that ache at the end but my cheeks from smiling so much. As usual the crowds were out in force and at times were 10 deep lining the streets of the City. After a quick sandwich lunch at The WC Carmens Hall it was time to make the return trip. I was very honoured to have been invited as one of 20 Masters to form a Guard of Honour at Mansion House to welcome the Lord Mayor back to his home for the year and their followed another lunch this time in the wonderful Egyptian Hall in Mansion House. When Nettie took the photo attached I thought she was taking a photo of me, not the celebrity in the background!

The Silent Ceremony – Guildhall

Friday 8th November

Following the election at the end of September of our new Lord Mayor, Alderman Alastair King it was time for him to be installed as the 696^th lord Mayor of London. The ceremony takes place in Guildhall and is called The Silent Ceremony because it is exactly that, the only words spoken are by the incoming Lord Mayor as he makes his declaration. The rest of the ceremony takes place in complete silence, one of the quirkier traditions in the City. It’s a hard one to explain but I would recommend that any Liveryman who has not attended does so at least once, it’s well worth it even though it only lasts 30 minutes.

WC Horners – Ralph Anderson Memorial Lecture

Thursday 7th Novemeber

An invitation from The Master Horner to attend their annual lecture, this year given by Professor Phil Coates at Bradford University. The venue was the magnificent Royal Society of Medicine and the subject was “Polymers are good for you” After so much bad press Prof Coates attempted to bust the myths surrounding polymers (literally translated into many units) and having started at a knowledge level of zero I can safely say that I learnt a lot about polymers over the evening! There followed a lively discussion over a buffet supper.

WC of Glovers - Installation Service and Lunch

Tuesday 5th November

The Clerk and Master are fortunate to be invited annually to witness the installation of the new Master Glover. As a Livery we hold this behind closed doors but the Glovers choose to hold their Installation during their annual church service, held in the magnificent St Margaret Lothbury, so the church is filled not just with Livery but also with family and friends. It’s quite a ceremony not least because they have four Wardens! Following the service we were treated to a magnificent lunch at Drapers Hall which was pretty much full to capacity with 260 guests. It looked fabulous. Our thanks go to The Glovers for a wonderful day.

Service of Thanksgiving for The Lord Mayor

Monday 4th November

The second service of the day was held at St Mary le Bow church for the work and dedication of The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor. We were treated to a selection of readings, joyful hymns and sparkling music by the choir “St Stephen Voices” The Lord Mayors chaplain, The Revd Dr Alan McCormack, gave a stirring sermon extolling the virtues of Venice (The Lord Mayor is of Italian extraction!) and their followed a champagne reception.

City & Livery Garden of Remembrance Service at St Pauls

Monday 4th November

This annual event at St Pauls opens Remembrance Week and this year was attended by all 111 Livery companies, a record. It is an opportunity for The City and Livery to remember the Fallen in much the same way that the Nation does at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday. The service takes place in the Garden at St Pauls (fortunately the weather was kind) and crosses were planted by The Lord Mayor and Sheriffs, representatives of the City, the Armed Forces as well as all Livery Masters.

There followed a lunch at Cutlers Hall.

WC Woolmen Civic Dinner at Goldsmiths Hall

Tuesday 29th October

Accompanied by The Clerk we were guests of the WC Woolmen’s Master Manny Cohen at the fabulous Goldsmiths Hall. At capacity with 240 guests the Hall looked magnificent with the presentation gold plates shimmering in the light of the 100’s of candles in the chandeliers.

The Right Hon the Lord Mayor Michael Mainelli was the principle guest with a plethora of Masters, Prime Warden and Upper Bailiffs in attendance, the majority from the Textile Livey Group.

Much was made in the evening of the success of the Sheep Drive which we attended in September. This event is run by The Woolmen and is the highlight of their year. We expect to be putting in a full contingent next year so please get you name down with our Clerk

Like us the Woolmen make awards to students who have excelled in Wool, Textiles and Design and after a delicious meal the seven worthy winners were all present to collect their certificates and medals.

A wonderful evening with excellent company and our thanks go to The Woolmen for their generous hospitality.

WC of Painter-Stainers Art Exhibition

Tuesday 15th October

The Master of The WC of Painter-Stainers extended an invitation to a private viewing of their annual Art Exhibition to all Masters in our year group.

The exhibition draws together a large and diverse collection of work by The Freemen and Liverymen of the Company and delves into it’s own historical context while also revelling in imagination, celebrating the skills of artists and craftspeople as well as the disruptive beauty of illusion.

Of particular interest was a painting entitled “Mary feeding the infant Jesus” smuggled out of Ukraine at the start of the second World War and lovingly restored by Lucia Scalisi of “The Repair Shop”

Many thanks to Master Ivor Macklin

Lord Mayors Defence & Security Lecture

Monday 14th October

An invitation to Mansion House for this lecture couldn’t be turned down. Unfortunately The Lord Mayor was abroad so Alderman Vincent Keaveney (Lord Mayor 2020-21 and FWK) made the introductions.

The keynote speaker was General Sir James Hockenhull KBE who gave a most thought provoking talk about his views on the Defence and Security of the UK. Wars and battles today are more likely to be fought from a computer than a tank and his concerns surrounded the advance that many countries had made in AI and technology. We can’t afford to fall behind, therefore this was a push to utilise and consolidate all the amazing intelligence that we have in this country to work together.

There followed a fascinating Q&A session which was off the record.

Signing of The Armed Forces Covenant

Friday 11th October

Prior to the banquet on Friday evening I was honoured along with Air Vice Marshal Richard Hill CBE, to sign the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of The Worshipful Company of Framework Knitters

The Covenant is a promise that together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served in The Armed Forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society that they serve with their lives.

As a company we are incredibly proud of our four military affiliations who are –

·        The Leicestershire and Derbyshire Yeomanry

·        The Leicester Army Cadets

·        The South and East Midlands Wing Air Cadets

·        The Croydon Sea Cadets

And of course don’t forget our very own Gallant Clerk, now a reservist who previously spent 24 years within the RAF, MoD and NATO.

Civic Banquet - Fishmongers Hall

Friday 11th October

I think understandably I had been nervous in the run up to my biggest Court meeting and Dinner of the year – despite all the hard work that everyone puts in, so much can go wrong! However, I shouldn’t have worried, things went exactly to plan the whole day.

 The weather was so good that prior to the Court meeting we were able to take our sandwiches out onto the terrace overlooking the Thames. In Court we admitted 7 new Freeman which included my sister-in-law and two of my nephews and we then clothed 5 new Liverymen and I am particularly proud that one was my wife, Nettie and another was my son Max.

At dinner we had 160 and with the candles lit and the cutlery and crockery gleaming the Great Hall looked absolutely magnificent. I would like to thank all that took part including the musical entertainment, my speakers Assistant Catherine Fuller and General Sir James Everard, our Beadle and Gallant Clerk, but especially to Fishmongers Hall who looked after us as if we were royalty.

It was a very special evening and one that Nettie and I will remember for a long time.

Almshouse Association Livery Dinner

Thursday 10th October

I was delighted to receive an invitation from Willie Russell-Hartley, the Chairman of the Almshouse Association to a drinks reception and dinner at the offices of CCLA, an investment house specialising in the management of funds for charities such as ourselves.

Willie is also a Director of CCLA so he was wearing two hats that night. We were joined by Nick Jones the CEO of The Almshouse Association and a number of other Livery Companies were present, including The Ironmongers, The Girdlers, The Watermen, The Weavers and The Drapers.

We received a presentation from the senior fund manager at CCLA on the current market with an insight into CCLA’s expectations within the upcoming Labour Budget.        

Over dinner we had a fascinating conversation as there has never been an “association” of Livery companies who have Almshouses. It’s probably high time that we did, it could only benefit all of us. As a Livery we use the Almshouse Association services on a regular basis and find that they are an invaluable help when it comes to our own Cottage Homes.

A stimulating and hopefully ultimately a productive evening.

WC Musicians Evensong at St Pauls

Wednesday 2nd October

The WC Musicians hold their church service annually at St Pauls and the whole Livery are invited. This year Nettie and I gratefully accepted and after the gowned Masters processed into the Cathedral we were seated under the great dome. As usual the music and choir were magnificent particularly a piece specially composed by Edward Elgar that has been played every year since 1914 to commemorate those Musicians that have died in the previous 12 months. There followed a Reception in The Crypt.

Common Hall for the election of the Lord Mayor

Monday 30th September

As Master you are expected to attend Common Hall twice during your year, the first for the election of the Sheriffs in June and the second for the election of the Lord Mayor in September. Common Hall takes place in Guildhall and as Master you are required to process during the ceremony. This year Alderman Alastair King of the WC of Blacksmiths was elected for the ensuing year to take his place in November at the Silent Ceremony which I will write about in a few weeks time. We retired for a very late lunch to Painter Stainers Hall where we were well looked after albeit a little slowly.

Annual Livery Sheep Drive

Sunday 29th September

It is the right of every Freeman of The City of London to drive your sheep across Southwark Bridge and I exercised that right this weekend. Accompanied by Liveryman Gaby Morris and supported by Liveryman Helen Steel we joined the Master of the Makers of Playing Cards, Tony Blower, and his family to cross the bridge behind six well behaved sheep. I’m very glad I took the advice given and wore a pair of old shoes because by the time we took our turn the sheep had left plenty of calling cards. The event was run by The WC of Woolmen ably assisted by the Guild of Young Freemen and thanks go to them for a great day. After the event we retired to the City Livery Club for a well earned drink and lunch. Next year we will be taking our own slot on the bridge so please do get involved. Thanks also go to Howard Morris for being the official photographer of the day.

FWK Cottage Homes MacMillan Coffee Morning

Friday 27th September

Christine and Graham Kilbourne were kind enough to host this years MacMillan Coffee Morning in Corah Hall. With a selection of delicious cakes and pastries on offer as well as a bountiful raffle the event was well attended.

By coincidence Nettie had also invited our local MP, Neil O’Brien, as well as Samia Haq, Leader of Oadby and Wigston Borough Council and both were made to feel very welcome.

Arch Sinfonia Concert

Thursday 26th September

I was delighted to accept an invitation from Arch Sinfonia, a charity with a mission to re-examine the possibilities of live orchestra music, making and breaking down barriers between audience and musician.

The concert took place in the massive Hall of Westbourne Park Baptist Church, designed for it’s excellent acoustics and I was very surprised to be seated “in the round” with a Viola on my left and a Double Bass on my right. I literally was sitting in the middle of the orchestra who were spread around the hall.

The music was absolutely magnificent, firstly Schumann’s Overture, Scherzo and Finale followed by Beethoven’s Symphony No.4 in four parts.

The whole experience was so uplifting and the sound that washed over me was stunning. My congratulations to the founder and Conductor Chloe van Soeterstede and her orchestra for one of the best evenings I’ve had as a Master.

UKFT Textile Sustainability Conference

Thursday 26th Septemeber

The annual UKFT Sustainability Conference was held for the third year running at Drapers Hall. With 250 delegates and numerous speakers it was extremely well attended and I was joined by Past Master Julian Ellis and Under Warden Jonathan Pears.

The event was sponsored by The Textile Livery Group, of which of course we are one of the 12 members and this years topic was Tackling Textile Waste.

The CEO of UKFT, FWK Liveryman Adam Mansell, welcomed everyone before we headed straight into 6 hours of fascinating insight into the problems and solutions facing the textile industry.

Sheriffs Ball – Guildhall

Friday 20th September

The annual finale for the Sheriffs of London is a Gala Ball at Guildhall and Nettie and I made up one of three tables of current Masters and their Consorts. The theme was “The Best of London and Britain” We were greeted by a carpet Guard of The Company of Pikemen and Musketeers as well as The Pearly Kings and Queens. The musical entertainment was provided by Darren Reeves and it was a surreal experience dancing the night away in the surroundings of the austere Guildhall. We were very pleased to discover our very own Beadle Jamie Wallis was MC for the night.

De Montfort University Annual Textile Dinner

Thursday 19th September

Another wonderful invitation from the Vice Chancellor of DMU, Katie Normington, this time to attend their annual textile dinner. It was held in the prestigious Vijay Patel Building and we dined among the fashion designs of the students, most atmospheric.

The guest of honour was alumni Sandra Rhodes who was kind enough to turn out on her birthday and the keynote speaker was our old friend Anne Davies from East Midlands Today, she last spoke to us at last years Summer Dinner.

The event was attended by other Livery Companies who also provide Bursaries and Awards to students and I spent time catching up with James Bagley, Upper Bailiff Weaver. At dinner I sat next to Shokat Adam, the recently elected Independent MP for Leicester South, who deposed Labours John Ashworth in what was probably the biggest surprise on election night.

Sheriff’s Finale & Judges Portrait Unveiling – The Old Bailey

Wednesday 18th September

Nettie and I were delighted to receive an invitation from The Sheriffs, Dame Susan Langley and Bronek Masojada to a drinks reception held in the magnificent Central Reception Hall of The Old Bailey to celebrate the end of their year and to unveil portraits of all of the Old Bailey Judges. The portraits had been painted over the last 12 months by Bronek’s wife Jane, a very well respected contemporary figurative artist.

We persuaded The Recorder of London, HHJ Mark Lucraft to pose with us in a photo by his portrait.

Master & Clerks Lunch – WC of Farmers

Monday 16th September

Russ and I were invited by Guy Brogden, Master of The Farmers, to attend the annual lunch at Farmers & Fletchers Hall. Clearly trying to outdo the Butchers I don’t think I’ve ever had such a large piece of Beef Wellington which was cooked perfectly and accompanied by an excellent wine. I’ve come to realise that it is a tough life being Master but someone has to do it!

The speech was given by Jo Franklin, a young farmer, who laid out the bare bones of running a farm post Covid and the trials and tribulations of life under the current regulations. The response from the guests was given by Professor Morag Shiach, the Master Draper.

Escape from The Tower

Thursday 5th September

The Red Cross have traditionally organised this event annually and previously it has been held at The Old Bailey, however due to restrictions imposed it has been moved to The Tower of London.

Around 25 Masters, some with consorts, were met at The East Drawbridge Gate of The Tower on a balmy September evening by The Yeoman Gaoler. We were marched to The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Headquarters where we were fingerprinted and asked to confirm the crimes that each had been charged with. I’m delighted to say that rather than being marched down to the cells we were treated to a rather delicious 3 course “last meal” in the Fusiliers Dining Room. As coffee was served the Sheriffs, Dame Susan Langley and Bronek Masojada, read each charge as the individual Masters stood with their heads bowed in shame. Some were sentenced to life imprisonment, others simply condemned to a swift execution.

The evening concluded with The Ceremony of The Keys, a tradition going back some 900 years.

I am delighted (but not surprised) to say that the Framework Knitters were individually named on the evening as having raised the most money of all present, a fantastic sum of £2,067, and a grand total of £30,000 was raised on the evening for The Red Cross. Thank you to everyone that supported me, I was a very proud Master.

De Montfort University – Graduation Ceremony

Wednesday 4th

The City closes down in August so it was lovely to have a break but it was back with a bang today but this time in Leicester with an invitation from The Vice Chancellor of DMU to attend the Graduation Ceremony at The Curve Theatre for their Textile students.

The whole experience was very professionally run and it was extra special to see the four students that had been interviewed by our Education Committee, receive their certificates. Two of them had been awarded Bursaries/Awards by the committee and the other two were highly commended. The quality of students from DMU remains as high as ever.

Inter Livery Petanque Competition, Vauxhall Gardens

Thursday 1 August

Following the Guildhall Ceremony Nettie and I headed for Vauxhall Gardens to meet our third team member, PM Tony Jarvis, for the Inter Livery Petanque Competition run by The Distillers. In it’s third year the event is now fully subscribed with the maximum 32 teams. We were drawn against the Actuaries B and Needlemakers in the opening rounds and managed to beat both by very narrow margins, however this was enough to get us into the Semi Finals where we comfortably beat the Entrepreneurs Clerks Team setting up a Final against the Spectacle Makers. Unfortunately, they were just too strong for us and we finished a very creditable Runner Up.

Another great evening and thanks go to all involved.

Guildhall - Chamberlains Court

Thursday 1 August

After a quiet couple of weeks following the Leicester weekend it was back to business again. We have a number of Freeman wishing to progress to full Livery status and to do that each has to first obtain the Freedom of The City of London. The ceremony takes place in The Chamberlains Court at Guildhall and this time was conducted by the Clerk. Susan Pymm, Nigel Lugg and my wife Nettie Ellis were all admitted by Nomination as they were presented through our Livery Company and my son Max Ellis was admitted by Patrimony as I was a Freeman before Max was born.

Susan and Nigel were supported by IPM Liz Fox as well as Susan’s husband and Nigel’s daughters and following the Declaration each signed the most famous “Autograph book in the World”

The Clerk made the whole event very special with a potted history of the Freedomship and Ceremony as well as an insight into a number of famous Freemen and Women.

We then adjourned to the local hostelry for a well earned glass of fizz.

601 Squadron (Royal Auxiliary Air Force) Annual Reception

11 July

Invited by Air Vice Marshall Malcolm Brecht, Officer Commanding of 601 Squadron to their annual reception at The RAF Museum, Hendon. 601 squadron are celebrating 100 years and were awarded honours in The Battle of Britain. We were firstly welcomed by the museum CEO Maggie Appleton and then AVM Malcolm Brecht gave us a brief update on the squadron in the present day. The evening concluded with a wonderful parade display accompanied by the Military Band. 

Leicester Weekend

5, 6, 7 July

As usual the Leicester weekend kicked off with our annual Golf competition with the Livery playing for The Howard Ellis Salver and guests competing for The Byford Cup. The weather kept fair for the competitors at the Leicestershire Golf Club. Unfortunately, due to a knee injury I was unable to play but at the dinner which followed I was able to present PM Liz Green with the Howard Ellis Salver and Sue Barrett with The Byford Cup. Congratulations to all who competed and especially to those that organised.

On Saturday morning it was off to The Wigston Framework Knitters Museum for the annual “Ceremony of the Socks” certainly one of our more peculiar ceremonies. The museum pay their peppercorn rent of two socks (it used to be one sock until the Mayor and Liveryman, Mike Griffiths, some 10 years ago, double the rent!) to Oadby & Wigston Borough Council. This year the socks were presented to Deputy Mayor Councillor Jasvir Chohan by Jo Orson Chairman of Melton Borough Council.

Next it was back to The Framework Knitters Cottages and into Corah Hall for our Court meeting, my first as Master. There followed our dinner at Welford Road, the home of Leicester Tigers. We had a delicious meal in the wonderful Clubhouse Room which had a balcony overlooking the pitch. My guest speaker was Christopher Sturgess, chairman of Sturgess Motor Group, who entertained with a brief history of the family business.

On Sunday we gathered for the annual church service at St Peters Oadby. Sadly my chaplain, Rev Jon Tearne, had been taken ill so his colleague Rev Steve Bailey stood in. This service is so important to the Livery, it’s when we re-dedicate the Livery and all Liverymen pledge the oath. I was fortunate enough to be able to persuade my local choir from Ashley to come and sing a couple of pieces, which was wonderful.

The weekend ended with our traditional Barbecue at The Cottage Homes, sadly the weather meant that we had to eat in Corah Hall, but our chefs, Upper Warden, Under Warden and Clerk, managed to feed everyone very well, my thanks to them and all the helpers for all their hard work. We were joined by Freeman Anthony Lowe, whose father was Master in 1976, for the presentation of a new bench by their family to display the family plaques.

Karl Whatsize – Retirement

Friday 28 June

Karl started at the Cottage Homes in November 2009 as understudy to Roger Marshall and since he was officially made a permanent member of staff in May 2010 he has been our Gardener/Mower/Painter/Decorator/Builder/Handyman/Refurbisher/Consellor. In fact we haven’t actually found anything yet that Karl hasn’t been able to turn his hand to.

Over the last 14 years Karl has been a constant here at The Homes not only as an invaluable asset, mending, cleaning, patching, building, restoring but also as a friendly ear to all of the residents that have needed someone to help or simply someone to talk to.

Karl has decided to call it a day as he has reached State Pension age and we celebrated with a lunch in Corah Hall with a good number of residents as well as members of The Management Committee and a number of Past Masters.

We wish Karl and Elaine all the very best as they drive off into the sunset in their beloved Campervan.

Common Hall – Election of The Sheriffs

Monday 24 June

Liverymen and women gather annually at Common Hall in Guildhall to elect the Sheriffs of the City of London. As a Master it was a privilege to progress into Guildhall in our robes and jewels. This year it was reasonably straightforward as there were only two candidates standing for the two positions available. Traditionally one candidate comes from the ranks of the Aldermen, this year this was Gregory Jones KC and the other is a non Aldermanic candidate, this was David Chalk a Past Master Draper.

The most exciting part of the day was the contested vote for the position of Bridgemasters, a position dating back to 1200. The current incumbents (Messrs Bennet and Howard) who have been in the position for the last 15 years were ousted and new blood was installed in the form of Mr Shilson and Mrs Threader.

Finally we voted to re-install the four Ale Conners, another ancient position, who are responsible for the quality of the beer within the square mile, a position I quite fancy once I’ve retired!!

Livery Masters weekend – London

Friday 21 to Sunday 23 June

Historically the Livery Masters weekend has always taken place in Ironbridge, however since Covid this has been moved around the country. Lord Mayor, Mchael Mainelli, was keen that we should remain in London this year. Nettie and I were lucky enough o be allocated accommodation in Mercers Hall and the weekend started off on the Friday evening with a BBQ at Haberdashers Hall where we were entertained by an impromptu sing along. On Saturday we were all given various activities, we started with a visit to The London Metropolitan Archives which was fascinating and needed a lot longer than the 60 minutes we were allocated. Everyone then met for lunch at the Tower of London in a private dining room where we were entertained by the Director of The Tower, Richard Jackson. After lunch it was a guided tour of Mansion House and a visit to the famous Plate Room followed by an exhibition of silver in Goldsmiths Hall comprising the Formula One trophies made by silversmith Richard Fox. The day was topped off with a black tie Gala Dinner in the Library of Guildhall. On the Sunday morning we met to discuss our Masters year group and to elect a Chairman. This was followed by a wonderful Choral Matins at The Guild Church of St Lawrence Jewry in Guildhall.

A wonderful weekend and thanks go to all those who organised it.

Brigantes Breakfast – Liverpool

Thursday 20 June

The Brigantes were formed in 2014 to enable Liverymen of the City of London to meet regularly in the North of England. This years “Breakfast” was held in the magnificent St Georges Hall in Liverpool where over 250 attended. The FWK were well represented as usual. We were firstly entertained to a fascinating talk on the History of The Cunard Line followed by a wonderful meal in the Great Hall. The entertainment was provided by an ensemble singing a medley of Liverpool’s famous songs followed by speeches by The Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, Sheriff Bronek Masojada, Past lord Mayor David Wootton and HH Wendy Joseph KC. The splendid organ was played by Past Lord Mayor Sir Andrew Parmley. It was a wonderful day out ad is highly recommended to any Liveryman whether from north of the border or not!

Inter Livery Croquet Tournament – Worthing

Saturday 15 June

On the recommendation of PM Julian Ellis, Nettie and I set off for Worthing on Friday to make sure we were down on the South coast in time for a 9.00am start on Saturday. We awoke to driving rain, thick sea mist and mid winter temperatures but the organisers were adamant that play would go on. Sure enough by about 11.00am the skies cleared (enough to see) and we were involved in our first ever game of croquet at Sussex County Croquet Club, one of only two clubs in the country with 11 lawns. The competition was split between the “professionals” which consisted of 16 Livery teams playing for the Glovers Cup and us “amateurs and beginners” a further 20 Livery teams, playing for the inter Livery Cup. Nettie and I peaked in our first game which we managed to win and then subsequently lost our remaining 4 games. The Glovers managed to clean up on both trophies which Master Clive Grimley was delighted about as his company had arranged the whole day. Thanks go to the WC Glovers and all the volunteers who showed us the rules, made the tea and coffee and supplied the delicious lunch. We’ll be back.

WC Drapers – Masters and Clerks lunch at Drapers Hall

Thursday 13 June

Russ and I were delighted to accept the invitation to Masters and Clerks for the annual lunch held by the WC of Drapers at Drapers Hall. The weather was fine enough to have the welcoming drinks in the garden before we moved into the magnificent Hall where The Master Draper, Tom Harris, welcomed the 50 Masters attending with their Clerks. The food was absolutely delicious, accompanied by some very special wines and the company was stimulating. It’s so good to get a different perspective on other Livery companies and how they operate. It’s often said that there are 111 different ways! Our thanks go to all the staff at Drapers Hall for a most enjoyable occasion.

WC Horners Golf Day – Ashridge Golf Club

Wednesday 12 June

We have entered a team into The Horners Golf Day since it started back in 2009. It’s played annually at Ashridge which is one of the prettiest golf courses on the circuit, originally designed by Henry Cotton. The day started cool but it soon warmed up and it was lovely to be able to play again, also it was a first outing for our new Livery Polo shirts. Our team of PM’s George Turner and Liz Green along with Ian Smart (husband of Freeman Genevieve Sweeney) played well and had a thoroughly enjoyable round followed by the traditional excellent lunch. However we didn’t quite score well enough as The Actuaries scooped top prize with Tallow Chandlers in second place.

Our thanks go to The Horners for another wonderful day, we’ll be back next year.

Lord Mayors Abseiling Challenge

Friday 7 June

Unfortunately I was unable to take part in the Lord Mayors challenge to abseil down the Leadenhall Building (affectionately known as “The Cheesegrater”) but Nettie and I were determined to get along to support as The Lord Mayor, Lady Mayoress and a number of Masters took up the challenge of abseiling 47 floors down the building. Fortunately it was a beautiful day and we manged to get a photo of The Lod Mayor and his wife after they had finished.

Ruddington Museum – Presentation of Kings Award for Volunteering

Sunday 9 June

I was very pleased to receive an invitation to attend the presentation of The Kings Award for Voluntary Service to the staff of Ruddington Museum.

The award was presented by The Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Veronica Pickering MBS HAC, to the Chairman of the Trustees of Ruddington, Ian Rowson

Ruddington has over 50 volunteers and the citation read by the Deputy Lieutenants was a glowing reflection of the work that is done at this remarkable museum.

Fan Makers Summer Dinner

Thursday 6 May

Nettie and I were delighted to receive a personal invitation from the Master Fanmaker, Mike Lakin, to their Summer dinner at Butchers Hall. We hadn’t dined their before as it has been closed for renovation for around 3 years. It’s a very modern hall with the reception rooms on the ground floor and the dining hall on the second floor but it has been beautifully renovated. Following a delicious meal we were entertained to a hornet solo by the Masters youngest son, Ben, playing a medley of World War two songs in memory of the 80^th anniversary of D-Day and then a fascinating talk by Mrs Rhian Wong who is the curator of the fan collection held by The Royal family. The photo attached is a guide to “The Language of the Fan”.

Masters Tea Party

Wednesday 5 June

Following last years very successful trip to Wymondham Windmill the Residents Social committee requested that we make the same trip again this year and I was very happy to oblige. The Windmill and Tea Rooms are located in a beautiful part of North East Leicestershire in rolling countryside with magnificent views. We were allocated our own room and approximately 30 of us which included residents, committee members and helpers had the most delicious tea of sandwiches, cup cakes, custard tarts, chocolate covered strawberries and mini profiteroles. The portions were so large that many took “doggy bags” home.

My thanks again to those who were kind enough to drive the residents to and from Wymondham.

Lunch at the Old Bailey

Thursday 30 May

The invitation from Sheriff Bronek Masojada to take lunch with His Majestys Judges at The Old Bailey was one I had particularly been looking forward to. After a rigorous security check the five other guests and I were escorted to the rooms of Sheriff Bronek on the top floor of The Old Bailey, the same rooms, incidentally, once occupied by our PM Hon Liz Green. Bronek entertained us with 30 minutes of history about the role of the Sheriff before we were led into the dining room where the judges were waiting having just suspended their hearings for lunch. It was made clear that we had just 60 minutes to eat lunch before all judges were back on duty in their courtrooms. Seated between Bronek and HHJ Lynn Tayton KC and opposite HHJ Mark Lucraft KC (The Recorder of London) and HHJ Anthony Leonard KC, I had a fascinating 50 minutes hearing about the workings of The Old Bailey as well as many humorous tales. Following lunch we were then permitted to attend one of the Court rooms. The Recorder suggested his courtroom (No.5) as he was just about to sentence a convicted murderer, Fiona Beal, for the murder of her partner Nicholas Bellingham in 2021 in Northampton. It was the most fascinating 30 minutes as HHJ Mark Lucraft summed up the case and then passed a sentence of a minimum of 20 years. His words “you may take the prisoner down” were quite chilling.

FWK - Residents boat trip

Wednesday 22 May

It was just too much to ask that we had a dry day just 24 hours after getting a soaking at The Palace but it wasn’t to be!

On the Wednesday morning Nettie and I arrived bright and early at the Cottage Homes in preparation for a 9.00am departure by coach, only to be delayed by The Peter le Marchant Trust, who run the barges from Loughborough, who told us that they wouldn’t be able to take the boat all the way to the Waterside pub at Mountsorrel, our destination for lunch, due to the river flooding! After some serious negotiation by our Homes Manager we finally agreed that we would take a curtailed boat trip and that the coach would transport us to the pub.

It simply didn’t stop raining which meant that we were confined to the seating area inside the boat rather than sitting on deck but that didn’t stop our brave residents from enjoying the trip which was followed by a delicious two course lunch.

Thank you to the Clerk and members of the Livery who helped on the day for making things run smoothly.

Lunch to warm up after the wet boat trip!

The residents enjoying a warming munch after the soggy boat trip!

Garden Party – Buckingham Palace

Tuesday 21 May

Nettie and I were honoured and delighted to receive our invitation from The Lord Chamberlains office to attend the Garden Party. We were given a couple of choices and opted for 21^st May and we joined a number of other Masters for lunch at The Goring prior to the event, kindly organised by the Master Security Professionals. During lunch the sky became darker and heavier and by the time we left to queue at Buckingham Palace gate it was already raining heavily and unfortunately it didn’t stop raining for the rest of the day. With umbrellas everywhere this made it very difficult to get anywhere near a Royal and extremely hard to see anyone, apparently The Prince of Wales, Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice and Zara and Mike Tindal were all in attendance but sadly I can’t verify that. Nettie and I however did manage to walk around the beautiful gardens but sadly even a cup of tea and cucumber sandwich wasn’t possible as the tea tent was crammed with guests taking shelter from the torrential rain. A damp but enjoyable experience.

The Big Curry Lunch post briefing at Mansion House

Tuesday 14 May

Following the very successful Big Curry Lunch last month, Under Warden Jonathan Pears and I were invited to Mansion house by the Lord Mayor to be told the final figures that were raised for the Army Benevolent Fund, The Royal Navy Charity and the RAF Benevolent Fund. Following an introduction by Michael Hockney, the event organiser, the Lord Mayor revealed that the grand total raised was £402,000 of which just over £2,000 was raised by the FWK stall. Again many congratulations to Jonathan and his team for all their hard work. PM Liz Green, Jonathan and I all purchased jars of Mr Todiwala’s Marsala sauce, could be curry on the menu for the next few weeks!

The Master

Freedom Ceremony at Ruddington Museum

Sunday 19 May

Past Master Sheila Turner and the Education Committee have been so successful in recruiting our students that we put on a special ceremony to admit 6 students from DMU and NTU, Olivia, Estelle, Helen, Ellie, Lauren and Bridget as well as Mary a volunteer at Ruddington Museum, into the Freedom of the Livery. Normally this would have been conducted at one of our Court meetings but as our Charter allows us to conduct these outside London it seemed a sensible option for our local students. Both the museum and the weather were most welcoming and following an open air induction we were treated to tea and cakes. The event was particularly well supported by the families of the Freemen as well as members of the Education Committee. Our thanks go to Ruddington for allowing us to hold this event.

The Master

FWK Cottage Homes visit of Willie Hartley-Russell (Chairman of The Almshouse Association)

Nettie and I first met Willie Hartley-Russell at an Almshouse seminar at Wyggeston Almshouses in Leicester in 2023. At the time I asked him if he would do us the honour of visiting our Almshouses and yesterday a small reception committee comprising Nettie and myself along with PM’s Jeremy Beachell and Tony Jarvis, Upper Warden and Chair of the Cottage Homes Committee Peter Corah, Steward Jill Journeaux, Liveryman Michael Griffiths and The Clerk, welcomed him to Oadby.

Nettie had arranged an agenda and after a cup of coffee Willie visited David and Elaine Evans in Cottage 4 and Hazel Littlewood in Cottage 15. There followed a tour of Corah Hall and our Archive/Library Room and then a detailed explanation of the work to be carried out on Cottages 20 and 21. It was a very useful meeting and we learnt a lot about the work of the Almshouse Association and the help that they can provide. My thanks go to Willie for taking time out of his busy schedule, it was much appreciated.

Chairman of The Almshouse Association visit Hazel!

Thursday 9 May

369th Festival Service at St Pauls

Tuesday 7 May

This service was formerly called The Sons of The Clergy. It originated in 1655, just two years before our Cromwellian charter was signed, when it was a method for the merchants of the City of London and the sons of the clergy to raise funds for the welfare of the Clergy, their children and widows.

The service has only been paused on two occasions in it’s history and that was in the 1941 Blitz and the 2020 pandemic. The Festival service is a key staple in both the history of the Cathedral and choral music tradition with composers such as Adward Elgar composing arrangements especially for the service.

As a Master it was a privilege to process into the Dome and then listen to three choirs, Durham Cathedral, Rochester Cathedral and St Pauls Cathedral particularly when they all performed the Elgar piece together. Quite stunning. During the service the sermon was given by The Most Revd Andrew John, Archbishop of Wales. 

I was fortunate enough to be the guest of Past Master Hon Liz Green at the buffet following the Festival Service at St Pauls. This was run by The Clergy Support Trust and over 300 diners were treated to a delicious buffet in the magnificent hall (London’s largest Livery Hall) and speeches from Senior Treasurer Richard Farmborough, Chief Executive The Rev Ben Cahill-Nicholls and The Right Rev Dr John Inge the Lord Bishop of Worcester.

A great way to finish off a splendid day.

Norwich University Textile Awards

Thursday 2 May

The FWK Education Committee have only recently started visiting Norwich University to assess students for Bursaries and Awards and I was lucky enough to be on the panel when we visited back in 2023. The three students that we interviewed all applied for and were granted Freedom of the Company at our recent Installation Court meeting. Kate Farley (course leader) and Caroline George (knit tutor) are doing a wonderful job with their students and kindly invited me to judge their annual Textile Industry Awards Event. 23 students had entered 8 judging categories that included colour, presentation and confidence. Judges were given just three minutes to “interview” each student. I was asked to judge the knit element for which just 8 students were eligible but I was asked to question all 23 students, giving valuable experience to them and me! The standard was exceptionally high and inspiration had been sought from nature, sustainability and even doors in Prague! With applications ranging from hiking, fidget aides, the human body and children’s play it was very difficult to choose a winner but after careful consideration my runner up was Lottie Green and the winner was Grace Lawrence. It was an honour to have been invited and I commend all of the students for their dedication skill and application. Knit at Norwich Uni will hopefully be on the FWK Bursary Awards itinerary as a permanent fixture.

Brigantes Annual Golf Competition – Ganton Golf Club

Monday 22 April

The Brigantes is a club formed specifically for those London Livery members who live in the North and an annual golf competition is held on a rotating basis at Ganton, Royal Liverpool and Lindrick. Following successful wrist surgery 12 months ago to eliminate chronic arthritis I have been able to swing a golf club again and secure a handicap of 22. This allowed me to enter the Brigantes competition. The FWK were well represented by PM George Turner, PM Tony Jarvis and Mary, Liverymen Adrian Keene and Marion, Mike Piper and Janey and John Mawer.

Playing in teams of four, I was partnered with our team captain Dennis (PM Fueller), Richard (Launderer) and Roger (Chartered Accountant). The weather held off and despite a strong northerly wind we managed to all stay dry. The course was in magnificent condition. Ganton is an extremely tough course particularly for high handicappers but our team seemed to score well. Following a delicious and well deserved supper the prize giving was announced and the FWK cleaned up on most of the prizes. Liveryman John Mawer won the nearest the pin competition, Mary Jarvis won the ladies competition AND your Master won the main prize of the day with the Team competition which was presented by The Ganton Ladies Captain.

A great day out and thanks go to David Bentley (PM Baker) and his team for all their hard work. Roll on Royal Liverpool next year!

The Big Curry Lunch at Guildhall

Thursday 18 April

The annual Big Curry lunch is always a splendid occasion. Nettie and I arrived at Guildhall and were ushered into a champagne reception held by the Lord Mayor and his Sheriff’s.

Prior to Princess Annes arrival we went to find our stall manned as ever by Under Warden Jonathan and his sales team consisting of Upper Warden Peter Corah, TheClerk, PM Liz Green, Assistants Janie Martin, Susan Jagelman and steward Susan Shields. The stall was positioned in a prime spot to catch the diners as they left the Great Hall. This included Princess Anne who stopped at our stall where I presented her with a cashmere scarf provided by Jonhstons of Elgin and socks her and her husband provided by Corgi socks. Princess Anne was very well informed about our industry as she represents the UK Fashion and Textile industry with Chairman Nigel Lugg who was the speaker at my Installation dinner.

Finally Nettie and I could partake of an excellent curry in the magnificent Guildhall before setting off for home. It’s been a fabulous first week as Master.

My thank go to Jonathan and his team for all their hard work.

The Master

Installation dinner of The Worshipful Company of Upholders

Wednesday 17 April

An invitation from the newly elected Master Mr Rob Ward to attend his Installation Dinner at Apothecaries Hall. One of our favourite Halls, Nettie and I were entertained extremely well by the Upholders. The Upholders are craftsmen in Upholstery and also pull their membership from the Undertakers. The newly elected Under Warden Stephen Tanner proposed the toast to the guests and Ian Thomas CBE The Town Clerk & Chief Executive of the City of London Corporation responded on behalf of the guests. An excellent evening with superb food and wine as well as a loving Cup which the Upholders have continued throughout although the wine was replaced by chocolates until recently.

The Master

Lunch with the Lord Mayor

Monday 15 April

An invitation from the Lord Mayor to all Masters and Consorts to lunch at The Chartered Accountants Hall to be followed by a Q and A session for the Lord Mayor. Unfortunately, Nettie couldn't make it. A delicious lunch which was followed by the Master Chartered Accountant telling the assembled that the session would be held under "Chatham House Rules" which effectively means that I'm not allowed to tell you what was discussed !! What I can say is that The Lord Mayor bought us up to date with the first 6 months of his tenure and then went on to tell us what his plans were for the next 6 months.

All a bit silly really but thems the rules and definitely no photos, so sorry!

 

The Master

The Installation Dinner

12 April

I am so proud to have been installed as The Master, especially in the same Hall that I was admitted into the Livery 39 years ago by my own father when he was Master. I also had the honour of admitting my son, Max, as a freeman in the Court meeting earlier in the day, keeping up the family tradition. 

It was such a special evening with my mother, daughter, sister and brother in law flying in from Kenya and the rest of the family making their way down from the East Midlands.

Assistant Paul Bonnet introduced our guests and Nigel Lugg OBE was my principal speaker. Ironmongers Hall looked spectacular and the evening went very smoothly and thanks go to The Beadle and The Clerk.

I am looking forward to representing the Company at as many events as I can in the next year. I can’t believe how busy my diary is with three visits down to London next week already planned and I will try to keep this post up to date with diary entries and photos where I can.

The Master