2025 Common Hall – Tuesday 18 November

This year our Common Hall (otherwise known as our AGM) was held in a new venue, Grocers’ Hall.  We were warmly welcomed, and supported, by all the staff and my thanks to them and Master Grocer for allowing us to use such a splendid venue.  I enrolled new Apprentices, admitted Graduating Apprentices and members to the Freedom and welcomed newly-clothed Liverymen.  We welcomed the Sheriffs of London who presented Certificates to recipients of the Annual Awards for Outstanding Achievement by a Dog and Handler (Military, Civil and Law Enforcement) and Commendations for the Sheriffs’ Award for Bravery.  I presented a Certificate to the 2025 KCL Essay Prize winner.  I also acknowledged the winner of the 2025 Young Entrepreneur category in the Security & Safety Entrepreneur Awards.  After my Address we retired downstairs for a most enjoyable Reception.  A full write-up will appear on the Website.

Lady Mayor’s Address to the Livery – Wednesday 19 November

I attended the Lady Mayor’s Address to the Livery at Mansion House on 19 November, which was very well attended by Masters and their Clerks.  This occasion gives the Lady Mayor the opportunity to set out her plans for the year ahead, both for the Mayoralty, the City of London and Livery.  The Lady Mayor’s objective to ‘unsquare the square mile’ was well received.  Julia Sibley, Chair of the Livery Committee, also addressed the guests.  There followed a Q&A session after which we retired for a very enjoyable Reception.