113. Election Court Lunch, 11 April 2019

Immediately following the Election Court (see Blog No 112) is our Lunch and Bursary Prizewinning Awards. So, whilst we were finishing off business in the Election Court, our guests arrived on board HQS Wellington amid some lovely (but cold) spring sunshine.

Reception drinks were taken on the Quarterdeck and my Wardens and I had the pleasure of welcoming each on board. The guest list was never-ending and I was delighted to see so many friends and supporters of the Company turning out. A real joy - and the sun continued to shine!

And then the Beadle knocked-up and we went below for lunch. This was expertly prepared and served by the team at the Cook and the Butler and a good time was had by all, despite the very cosy nature of the dining hall (it was all but full!). After the Loyal and Civic Toasts, the speeches began.

Fleet Warden Elect Graham Howells opened proceedings by introducing our guests who included the Master Fueller and his Clerk, the Clerk to the Livery Committee of the City of London, two returning previous Bursary holders (included Mr Patrick Sullivan, who rowed for Oxford in the University Boat Race the previous Sunday) and our principle speaker, Professor William Blake from Plymouth University.   The Fleet Warden Elect also read out the names of our three Bursary Prize-winners and I was pleased to able to present them each with their engraved glass jug and certificate. Well done to them all.

Finally, he invited members of the Company to toast our guests – in water as is our tradition – and ensured that everyone was made to feel extremely welcome.

In response, Professor Blake gave a very interesting and thought-provoking speech about his research into soil erosion and river estuary depletion around the world, and in particular in South America and Africa. He used some extraordinary photographs to illustrate his points and they were very well received. Some very sobering statistics and much to think about.

In response to Professor Blake’s toast to the Water Conservators, I was able to thank a wide range of people who had made both the lunch and the year such a success for the Company. Whilst there are still three more months of my Mastership yet to run, this was the last occasion when I could formally address the Company as Master. I gave a short review of the highlights and repeated that the Company is in good shape and is ”…punching above its weight…”. This was met with a very hearty response from all assembled.

The 100 Club was then drawn and thanks to the Professor, the Master Fueller and the Mistress in their help. The retiring collection was in aid of the Lord Mayors Big Curry Lunch Appeal and over £800 was raised. Thank you for your generous support of the ABF, the Solders Charity.

And so, this brought matters to conclusion and guests joined me in a Stirrup Cup in the Court Room. A really lovely occasion and with so much new blood and energy, it was a privilege to be able to lead such a talent group of people.

Pictures show the Master, Wardens and Beadles on the Quarterdeck, the Master with Professor Blake in front of our new banner (courtesy of the Deputy Master) and the Master with Oar Number Four, Oxford Boat Race Crew!