It was with enormous pride and not a little trepidation that
I as Master took my place at the head of the table for what is the high-point
of the social year – the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators Annual
Banquet. Set out before me were two long ‘sprigs’ laid up to exacting detail by
the catering staff and surrounded by all our members and guests. It was a truly
memorable moment.
But to backtrack a little; Drapers Hall was the setting for
this wonderful evening and I was delighted – together with the Mistress, the
Fleet Warden and the Walbrook Warden and Consort – to be able to welcome
everyone as they climbed the staircase to the Court Dinning Room for the
reception drinks. Expertly served by the in-house team the conversation flowed
but before long the Beadle knocked up for dinner. The principle guests joined
with me into processing into the stunning Livery Hall and we all found our
places. After I had said Grace a sumptuous dinner followed, which was much
enjoyed. Then came the traditional Sung Grace and the Loving Cup ceremony –
always good fun - followed by the Loyal Toasts.
The musical interlude was provided by three students from
the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Mistress and I had chosen three
of our favourite songs which were expertly delivered. The students received a
resounding round of applause!
This was followed by a most pleasant duty which was to admit
Alderman and World Trader Professor Michael Mainelli as an Honorary Freeman of
the Company. I was able to give our guests but a small flavour of Michael’s career
and interests before he read aloud the declaration. I then presented him with
his ‘tear drop’ and certificate to confirm his new status. Michael then kindly
replied and expressed his pleasure in becoming a member of the Company.
After welcoming all our other guests and toasting them in
water as is our tradition, our Principle Guest, the Right Honourable and Right
Reverend Lord Chartres KCVO proposed a toast to the Company. He also spoke to
us about the importance – both physically and spiritually – of water and the
heavy responsibility we all had to ensure the world has enough to drink. It was
a challenging message but delivered with wit and good humour. A most brilliant
orator.
In response I thanked Lord Chartres for an excellent speech
and after a few parish notices invited all to join with me in a Stirrup Cup
before departure.
My thanks must go to everyone who made the evening such a
success and in particular I would mention the Beadle and the Clerk for all
their work. We now look forward to the next Banquet in November 2019!
Pictures show the Livery Hall before dinner and the Master
and Mistress with our two daughters, Holly and Emily.
For more details of the Banquet please see our website and
the write-up kindly prepared by Past Master Keith Tozzi.
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