The Mansion House was the setting for the Worshipful Company of Engineer’s Annual Livery Banquet and the Mistress and I were delighted to be able to attend. Another white-tie event (the second in two days!) and a chance to dine in perhaps the ultimate of Livery Halls – the Mansion House and home of the Lord Mayor! And what a marvellous evening it was too.
Bringing together some 160 guests in one place is always a challenge but the Mansion House staff are well versed in large gatherings. A lively pre-dinner reception was held in the Salon, a large pillared room (see picture) where guests assembled and chatted. The Master Engineer, Professor David Johnson and his Wardens greeted everyone as they arrived and we were made to feel very welcome. Before long however the Beadle called us into dinner.
Held in the famous Egyptian Room (see picture) we found our places (the Mistress and I were on Top Table!) and settled down to some pre-dinner music. A splendid meal then followed expertly served by the in-house caterers. A sung grace followed as did the Loving Cup ceremony – always fun! Further music was provided by the Live Brass Quintet under their Master of Music, Simon Sturgeon-Clegg.
The Loyal and Civic Toasts were given by the Master and a response made by Lord Mayor Locum Tenens, Alderman Sir David Wootton (the Lord Mayor himself being at the Guildhall for another dinner). The many guests were welcomed by the Junior Warden, Dr Peter Blair-Fish and then the Principle Guest Dr John Beacham rose to deliver his speech. This was a fascinating and searching account of how the world of engineering had changed and would continue to change at an unprecedented rate into the future. Of particular concern was the UK’s ability to grasp the new world of digital engineering and Dr Beacham urged all present to make the most of this exciting new development to the mutual benefit of the Company and society. His speech was much appreciated.
Carriages were at 22:30 and so guests bade their farewells and were off into the (much colder) London night.
A wonderful evening in a fantastic setting and our thanks go to the Master Engineer and his team and to the Mansion House staff for their hard work.
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