The celebrations for St George’s Day were stepped up another
gear after the marvellous lunch at the Watermens and Lightermens’ Hall (see
previous Blog), this time at the courtesy of the Royal Society of Saint George.
The venue was the Guildhall and black tie was the required attire and so the
Mistress and I made our way into the Guildhall Yard to join other guests – and
how wonderful we all looked in the spring sunshine!
The Royal Society of Saint George, City of London Branch is celebrating
its 125th anniversary this year and the evening had a real sense of
occasion as the 560 or so guests made their way into the Old Library for a drinks
reception. There were many old friends from the Livery as well as those from
other walks of London life and it was good to meet them. From there we filed
into the Great Hall and found our places. The Hall was bedecked with the flag
of St George and other red and white icons and was great fun as we awaited the
Lord Mayor and the principle guests. They duly processed in and we were graced
with the presence of Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester
as well as the Lady Mayoress and Sheriff, the Hon Liz Green. After grace from
the Honorary Chaplin and the ceremony of the beef, dinner was served! My second
beef of the day! But it was a real treat and the portions were modest –
honestly… 
After the Loyal and Civic Toasts proposed by the Chairman
Ian Kelly, a presentation was made to the RAF Cadet of the Year, Cadet Flight Sergeant
Dana Pearce ATC – a very proud moment. A further toast to the guests was given
and in response, we were pleased to welcome our principle speaker, John
Benjamin. Best known to millions as the jewellery expert on the Antique
Roadshow, John regaled us with stories of his time on the show. Some of the
items valued were truly amazing whilst some were not – but his obvious love for
the show and the local punters shone through and he is a most engaging speaker.
After the Sung Grace, there followed a musical interlude led
by the London Banqueting Ensemble and Mezzo Soprano Claire Barnett-Jones. Lots
of traditional English anthems and of course the massed singing of Jerusalem,
Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia truly raised the roof. Simply
marvellous! For England and Saint George!
But soon it was all over and we made our way out to say our
goodbyes. An occasion like this takes a huge amount of organisation but it all
went smoothly and thanks must go to all involved.
Pictures show the magnificent Great Hall, a table setting
and our principle speaker, Mr John Benjamin.
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