Hi everyone,
Since my last blog in the middle of September, life has continued to be hectic with a good number of events. I think the number of events is up to 30 already!
We had a very enjoyable visit to the Globe theatre to see Comedy of Errors. Fortunately Christine had looked at the storyline the night before! The next day I walked for 10 miles around the 40 livery halls with other Masters and liverymen, ably supported by the Fleet Warden. We were gowned and it was a hot afternoon but we all completed the challenge!
On the Saturday Christine and I went to the Fisheries experiment fishing competition at Gravesend where the idea is to catch as many different species as possible. Unfortunately not many fish were caught, some said this is due to seals being present in the river. It was an excellent day with reasonable weather. On the Sunday a group of us visited the Oak Room at New River Head and then walked the 7 mile Heritage section of the New River. Rob Casey and Peter Hall did us proud in organising the event.
The next week I attended the presentation of the Shrieval chain to Andrew Parmley, who is an honorary liveryman of our Company, and who was installed as the Aldermanic Sheriff. I also attended the Sheriff's breakfast and the election of the Lord Mayor in Guildhall. Other events included the Fuellers' lecture and the Mercers' concert.
It was our Michaelmas court and lunch on 24 September at the Armourers Hall, which was filled to capacity. At the Court meeting we admitted 3 new Freeman and clothed 2 more in the livery.
Our annual golf day was successful with 3 other livery companies entering teams. It was very disappointing that only 3 water conservators attended. I know there are more golfers out there so please come along and play. Richard Waller does an excellent job organising our golf and we would appreciate your support.
In October Christine and I attended the Musicians' Company evensong in St Pauls and I attended the Gardeners' Company harvest festival followed by lunch and a very interesting presentation on the New Garden Bridge being planned to cross the Thames near Temple station to the South Bank. I have some concerns on the use of water for irrigation although the presenter mentioned they plan to install a grey water storage tank on the South Bank. I will be writing to the Bridge Trust to get some clarification on water use and disposal.
Last night I attended the Installation dinner for the new Master of the Fuellers Company at Skinners Hall.
When I was installed I said we are planning a number of social and technical events. I have to say the attendance has been disappointing. I'd be pleased to hear your views on the events. If they are not to your liking then tell me what you would like, nothing is cast in stone.
We have our lecture and dinner on 22 October at the Oxford and Cambridge Club. There are still some places available. On 6 November we have our banquet at Skinners Hall and we will be in the Lord Mayor's parade on 7 November so come along. It is a great spectacle and it will be good to have some support. Trevor & Annette Harrington will be pleased if anyone joins them in the crowd!
Enough for now until the next time.
