10. Consorts Charity Lunch, 25 July 2018

A charity lunch for Consorts / Mistresses on behalf of Treloar’s School and College was kindly hosted by the Mistress Barber at the Barber-Surgeons’ Hall on Monkwell Square and so my Mistress Wendy, accompanied by the Thames Wardens’ Consort Judy West duly attended. And what a wonderful event it was too!

As readers may know, Treloars in Alton, Hampshire are world famous for their care of some of the most physically disabled young people in our society. Recent OFSTED inspections have separately rated the School, the College and the Residential care as ‘Outstanding’ and the whole ethos of Treloars is about inspiration and independence. They have long been a favourite charity of the Water Conservators, the Lord Mayor and the Barber-Surgeons’ as well as many other Livery Companies so it was a privilege to be able to attend this fund-raising event.

The current Barber-Surgeons’ Hall was built in 1969, the third iteration of the premises; the Great Fire of London and the Blitz having done for the earlier versions. Dominating the Great Hall is the Holbein painting of Henry VIII (see picture) and guests were treated to an illustrated talk on the painting by the Past Master, Sir Barry Jackson. Preceding his talk was a welcome speech by the current Master Barber-Surgeon, Tony Hoskinson who explained more about the work of Treloars’ and the importance of fund raising – they need c. £2m per year just to run, let alone any capital projects they may need.

The final talk was on ‘The History of Damask’ given by Mrs Jane O’Brien, a textile artist and a member of the Society of Designer Craftsmen. Damask has a long and interesting history as a textile and its elaborate use was much employed in Renaissance Art, including that of Holbein.

After all that history it was time for a welcome drink in the physic garden before a two-course lunch in the (air-conditioned!) Great Hall. The Mistress Barber, Mrs Sue Hoskinson welcomed the principle guests, including the Lady Mayoress, Mrs Samantha Bowman and thanked all those who attended.  This was echoed by the Lady Mayoress after the lunch.

A very lovely occasion which allowed Consorts / Mistresses to meet together in a relaxed atmosphere and – more importantly – to raise funds for such a good cause. Wendy and I look forward to our visit to Treloars in February next year. It will be a privilege to be there.