Installation Dinner

The dinner following the installation of the new Master, Chris Dancaster, Senior Warden, Kay Linnell and Junior Warden Hew Dundas was held in the magnificent surroundings of Salters’ Hall on 29th October 2009.

This is a Hall that the Company has not used for a function for many years but it is a really splendid place.  It is based upon an original design by Sir Basil Spence and is one of the only livery halls in the City to have been built to a truly contemporary style. The ash panelling and red and purple furnishings provided a splendid backdrop to what is the most important event of the Company’s year.

There were over one hundred present, the Liverymen and Freemen of the Company and their guests enjoyed an absolutely splendid meal. The Master proposed the toast to the Guests which was responded to by Mr Justice Hickinbottom.

The other principal guests were the Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects, the Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Surveyors and the President of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.

During the evening the Master made a presentation to Leading Logistician (Catering Services) Gavin Parfitt of the Company’s affiliated ship HMS Mersey who is his Commanding Officer’s nomination as recipient of the first Sailor of the Year Award.

There was a further presentation during the dinner. Liveryman Barry Rose was a member of the Court of Assistants for seven years and a Trustee of the Charitable Trust for over 10 years. The Immediate Past Master presented him with a decanter in recognition of his sterling service to the Company. 

After the dinner Gavin and his partner Emma-Jane overcame the intricacies of the Loving Cup Ceremony con brio.

Gavin Parfitt with the Master (above) and with his partner Emma-Jane (below) overcoming the intricacies of the Loving Cup Ceremony

Barry Rose receiving a decanter from the immediate Past Master

(from left to right) Master of The Worshipful Company of Chartered Surveyors, Junior Warden, Lady Hickinbottom, Master, Mr Justice Hickinbottom, Master’s Wife, Senior Warden, Master of The Worshipful Company of Chartered Architects