Tuesday, March 19, 2019

97. Modern Companies Dinner, 18 March 2019


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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