Held bi-annually – the last being in September 2018 (see
Blog No 16) – the spring Modern Companies Dinner was kindly hosted by the
Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers at the lovely Watermen’s Hall at
St Mary at Hill. These dinners are a rare opportunity to bring all the Modern
Companies (those formed since 1926) together for an evening of fraternity and fellowship.
They are always very busy and great fun.
Welcomed by the Master Hackney Carriage Driver, Mr Phil
Davis and his Wardens we were treated to a champagne reception in the Court Room.
With upwards of 70 guests it was a tight fit and soon got very loud and very
warm. But it was great to meet up with old friends – mainly Masters, Senior
Wardens and Clerks – from the Modern Companies and the conversation flowed. But
soon it was time to be called to dinner in the Freeman’s Room.
Grace was said by the Learned Clerk of the Hackney Carriage
Drivers, Major Belinda Tregear before we sat down to a wonderful meal courtesy
of the Cook and the Butler. Most delicious. After the Loyal and Civic Toasts
and a few words of welcome by the Master, Alderman Alison Gowman (see picture) gave
a very interesting speech. In it Alderman Gowman praised the work of the Modern
Companies and encouraged us to continue to play an increasingly active role in
the industries that we represent. She spoke especially about sustainability in
all its forms and set out clearly what the City of London Corporation and its
residents and business expect from a modern, vibrant and relevant Livery
movement. It was good to receive this recognition and the assembled guests
showed their appreciation.
A swift Stirrup Cup was offered before leaving and we all
bade our farewells after what had been a marvellous, if all too brief, evening.
Thank you to the team of the Hackney Carriage Drivers for all their hard work
in organising the dinner. We look forward to the next later this year which
will be hosted by the Worshipful Company of Management Consultants. A date not
to be missed!
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