Every year Chris (as a member and Past Master) and I attend the annual Honourable Company of Air Pilots’ Trophies & Awards Dinner at Guildhall, a splendid occasion where over 500 guests assemble for a 3-course dinner, followed by presentations to pilots who have achieved so much during their careers or who have been part of a rescue mission and displayed an enormous amount of bravery and courage.  The afternoon started with Court, held in the Crypt, where members are elevated to Livery status or presented with their ‘Master Air Pilot’ or ‘Master Rear Crew’ Certificates.  A Reception in The Old Library followed before we processed into the Great Hall for Dinner.  As Master this year I was honoured to be invited as a Guest Master, along with Master Fueller and Master Chartered Secretary and Administrator.  After dinner their Clerk read out summaries of the Citations and all recipients were presented with their trophies and certificates by The Lord Mayor, Alastair King, who was the Principal Guest Speaker.  It was an honour once again to be seated at the Top Table, next to the (representative) Lady Mayoress and it is always humbling to hear accounts of what so many pilots do and have achieved.  The Post Horn Gallop was, as ever, one of the fun elements of the evening and a thoroughly enjoyable time was had by all.

Sue Jones,
Master