Every June, on Midsummer’s Day, 2 Sheriffs of London are elected by Liverymen at Guildhall, in a ceremony known as ‘Common Hall’.  As Master I joined other Livery Masters, gowned and badged, for the procession into Guildhall. 

This year Robert Hughes-Penny and Keith Bottomley were elected as Sheriffs for 2025-2026 and we send them our congratulations and best wishes for their year.

After Common Hall I joined the IPM, Wardens and Liverymen of the WCoSP, and other Livery Companies, for lunch at Stationers’ Hall.  The two Sheriffs-Elect, who make their way around the various Livery Halls which host lunches, joined us in the garden for pre-lunch drinks and thanked us all for our support.

Mid-afternoon saw me hotfoot it back to Guildhall Yard for the Flag Raising Ceremony for Armed Forces week, held in the presence of the Lord Mayor and current Sheriffs.  A reception inside Guildhall followed, which gave us the opportunity to meet other guests and members of the Military.

Sue Jones,
Master