Consorts’ Tea-Party at the Victory Services’ Club – Monday 27 October

Together with the Consort to the Nurses (who is also a Past Master Pattenmaker) my Consort, Chris, (a Past Master Air Pilot) hosted a Tea-Party for current, future and former Consorts of other Livery Companies and Courts, at the Victory Services’ Club on Monday 27 October.  34 guests attended and the afternoon started with a glass of bubbly after which we all enjoyed delicious sandwiches, scones and cakes accompanied by copious pots of tea!  The CEO of the VSC, Col Colin Frances, gave a brief introduction to and history of the Club.  The Guest Speaker was Mr Greg Moore, Deputy Town Clerk to the City of London who gave a wonderful history of London and connections with the Livery world.  After settling all bills there should be a small donation of about £100 to each of the 3 charities – Sheriffs’ and Recorder’s Fund, Nurses and our own Charitable Trust.  

Wizardry in Wood – Tuesday 28 October

Chris and I were invited to the private viewing of ‘Wizardry in Wood’ evening and Reception, hosted by The Worshipful Company of Turners at Plaisterers’ Hall on the evening of Tuesday 28 October.  This event is held every 4 years so, as Master this year, I was very lucky to be invited!  For a full description of the event do visit https://turnersco.com/wiw/ which will describe all the various exhibitors and competitions.  The quality of exhibits was outstanding and, as some items were for sale, both Chris and I left with our wallets/purses a little bit lighter (his more than mine!).  Plaisterers’ Hall is stunning, with 3 huge crystal chandeliers in the main hall and beautiful art work adorning the walls.  It is also the venue for our Christmas Lunch on 5 December so if you book, you will be able to share in its delights.

Re-opening of the Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula at the Tower of London – Wednesday 29 October

The Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula is almost re-opened (there is still working going on to install a lift) but on Wednesday 29 October they held a Gala Concert of music by Antonio Vivaldi and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart to celebrate.  A wonderful 1.5 hours of delightful singing was enjoyed by all and it was lovely to be back at the Tower of London, in all its glory with the poppy displays for Remembrance week.  Canon Roger Hall was in attendance and is looking forward to leading us at the Carol Service on 19 December.  

Consorts’ basket-making – Wednesday 29 October

My Consort, Chris, plus 19 ladies (!) were hosted by the Consort to the the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers at a basket-making lesson at Bakers’ Hall.   Much fun was had by all, a great lunch was provided and everyone went home with either a berry or bread basket – and ‘all their fingers’!!