By kind invitation of the Master Constructor, the Mistress
and I attended their annual Livery and Awards Dinner on the night before
Valentines Day; and what a wonderful evening it was too!
The Haberdashers’ Hall was the venue, one which I had not
visited before. Although one of the ‘Great Twelve’ and hence an ancient
Company, this is the fourth
reincarnation of the Hall the Haberdashers’ call home. It is a splendid, more
modern style of building just off Smithfield and was a most suitable choice for
the Worshipful Company of Constructors for their big night.
We were somewhat late for the reception that preceded the
dinner (thanks, South Western Railways!) but were soon made to feel very
welcome by the Master and his Consort, Mike and Jessica Parrett. We swiftly
moved into the Livery Hall for dinner and I was proud to process with the five
other visiting Masters (Engineer, Pavior, Plaisterer, Insurer and Arbitrator)
to our places at top table.
Grace was said by the Hon Chaplin Rev Cannon David Parrott
(St Lawrence Jewry) and a delicious meal followed, expertly served by the
in-house team. The Master ‘took wine’ with us visiting Masters which was a
lovely touch before moving on to the Sung Grace and a Loving Cup; very
hospitable.
The central part of the evening however was to present a
number of awards to mark some serious contributions to the world of
construction and building development. It was fascinating to hear the details
of the work each recipient had undertaken and they were worthy winners. I was
particularly impressed by the significance that sustainability played in the
decision of the judges; it is clearly as important in the built environment as
it is to us as Water Conservators in the water and waste industries. It is good
to see that so many people are now moving the agenda forward across a wide
range of disciplines. Well done Constructors!
The Master conclude with a fine speech of thanks and invited
us all to join him for an extended Stirrup
Cup. This is a new departure for the Constructors and the opportunity to
network for a good hour or more after dinner was an excellent idea, and much
appreciated.
Thank you to the Master, Wardens and other members of the
Worshipful Company of Constructors for a great occasion and we look forward
seeing more of you on the ‘circuit’ in the months to come.
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