The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers www.tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
Front cover: The Consort Nigel Rolls with Master Jenny Rolls and their son Court Assistant Ed Rolls
We are part of the Livery Company Climate Action Group and environmental impacts are a growing concern to us.
David Williams Editor
A challenge of editing the Review is always in fitting everything in. We are a very busy Company for the size of our membership with a diverse range of activities throughout the year. Issues must accommodate obituaries as well as increased reporting on new members. While we now try to include most of what transpires ‘for the record’, I am conscious that we cannot just be telling our members at length about the superb events you participated in, or else missed.
With much of our professional photography taken at our formal events, we can easily give the impression that our main activity is wining and fine dining in magnificent livery halls. While undeniably part of what we do, there is far more to being in this livery company – particularly where the living crafts we represent are today so vital to the quality of our built environment and now, politically, to the provision of homes. In this issue of Review this is emphasised through the reporting of both the Craft and Triennial Awards, each event already supported by a separate printed brochure. We also report on our annual Craft Visit, this year to a brickmaking company. We include an account of how Kate Longworth came into bricklaying working alongside Master Craftsman Heritage Bricklayer Emma Simpson, and highlight the amazing work of QEST.
Livery companies also participate fully into City life, particularly its governance, and with elections coming up it is timely to explain to newer members how the City is governed.
Where we do not have an official photographer, another recurring challenge of editing Review has been in securing usable photographs of informal events. With everyone today carrying a camera it should be easy. But many members understandably have little understanding of such terms as ‘file size’ , ‘resolution’ and ‘compression’ when it comes to sending us images that can be used in this publication without looking fuzzy or pixellated. Images for Review ideally need to be a minimum of 300dpi and that generally means the original file size on your camera must be well over 1MB. Your smart phone has camera settings that enable you to choose the file size of your images. Do use them and if possible check the dpi of what you are sending. Lastly, do not just embed your images into Word documents when reporting events. For the Review we need them transferred separately as jpg files to maintain the file size and quality.
Having said that, this Review is for forever dependent on contributions received from members, both in words and pictures, and thanks to all who assist with providing content.
Jennifer Rolls Master
It is a great honour to be installed as the 443rd Master of the Tylers and Bricklayers. I am the second Lady Master, and the 22nd member of the Bird family to be Master.
While I can’t pretend to have any experience of tiling or bricklaying, the Bird family were builders in the 1800’s and, as far as I can tell, there have been members of the family in the Company since then.
The Deputy Master, Chris Causer, and his Mistress Gilly, must be congratulated for an outstanding year; full of fun, interesting events and lots of good weather! A truly memorable year. The enthusiasm and energy of Chris was plain to see throughout.
I would imagine every Master before me has come to the role with a certain amount of trepidation. It is a daunting prospect to keep the Company flourishing for another year. A past master once said that the job is to keep the Company going and to pass the baton on to the next master without dropping it. I aim to do just that.
A new Master is supposed to set a theme for their year. It is rather difficult as you may imagine to come up with something fresh and different. So I gave some thought about what the T&B means to me and my theme – good fellowship – is one which I think best embodies our Company.
I’m sure that all Liverymen and Freemen remember their interviews, where the Clerk, Master and Wardens invite prospective candidates for a chat. A topic that often crops up in conversation is how someone comes to the major decision to apply to join the Company. Patrimony is one route; being in one of our trades is obviously another, but the main way is through having experienced good fellowship.
What does that mean in practice? It means taking interest when you spot a new face,
comradeship, companionship, kindly concern, support, and convivial spirit. I think this describes the Tylers and Bricklayers perfectly. Probably convivial spirit in more ways than one.
For a number of years I was fortunate to be the Almoner of the Company. It was through this role that one realises what a kind and compassionate group we are. I lost count of the number of times that I was contacted by members concerned that things were becoming just a bit difficult for other members or their families. This was done discreetly and is the best possible definition of good fellowship. A little kindness and compassion go a long way.
As the Lord Mayor so recently confirmed, we are known externally as a friendly Company – not the largest or the wealthiest, but I think as our healthy and growing membership proves, we must be doing something right. However, this doesn’t mean that we can rest on our laurels and I know just how hard it is to recruit new members and retain the ones we have. The job of chairing the Membership Committee is no mean feat, so thanks go to Past Master Simon Martin for all that he has done. Please do bring guests to as many events as you can and encourage them to join.
Over the past year or so, there have been changes and improvements in the Company which have required a great deal of professional advice and time to implement. This has been given freely and without question by fellow liverymen, so many thanks to all concerned. We also have a new website which has been recently launched. Do look at it and use it. It is there for us all.
This year we have not only had the Craft Awards, but the Triennial Awards as well. We are unique in the Livery in that we support three crafts – bricklaying, roof tiling and slating, and floor and wall tiling. As the recent Triennial Awards demonstrated so well, all three crafts are more relevant today to new building of quality than when we received our Charter in 1568.
In addition to our Awards, I am also delighted to report that the new Craft Bursary Scheme is going well and has proved popular. We awarded ten this year. Thanks go to all those whose hard work has made this possible.
We welcome Kiyan Rahman , our second Christ’s Hospital Presentee, as a Company Apprentice and thanks go to Past Master Lesley Day for being his Apprentice Master. KIyan achieved excellent results in his GCSEs this year. We wish him well for the future.
Congratulations go to three new members of the Court – Commander Edward Rolls, my son, Tony Yianni and a return visit for Colonel Ian Ogden, to be readmitted later this year.
As has been the custom for a few years, we shall again be going to the Armourers’ Hall after the Carol Service in December. I would like to think that we can field a strong team for the Pancake Races next year on Shrove Tuesday. After doing so well in recent years, we have the earned the right to compete again, so get those pans out!
And following the same premise that if something works, don’t change it, we shall also return to Goldsmiths’ Hall for the Craft awards. It was a wonderful event earlier this year and the hall is large enough to
accommodate prize winners and guests. The Annual Guest Banquet will be at Painters’ Hall and shall celebrate the 25th anniversary of the affiliation of the Company and the Royal Engineers at that event. We dine at the Ironmongers’ Hall for the Masters’ and Clerks’ Lunch in June. Following the Tylers and Bricklayers theme of ‘Cathedral Cities around Britain Tour’, we shall then go to my home city of Norwich for the Master’s trip. The Charter Day visit will be at the Weald and Downland Museum, now famed for hosting The Repair Shop on TV. There will be an evening event in September returning to Apothecaries’ Hall.
My thanks must go to our chaplain, Dr Jonathan Smith and to Richard Townend and the Lothbury Singers for the beautiful service following my installation.
Lastly, I would like to thank those who have supported me over the past few years, not least my husband Nigel, but especially Chris Causer, John Schofield, members of the Court and of course, our Learned Clerk Heather. All your advice has been invaluable.
I was admitted to the Tylers and Bricklayers in 2002 after enjoying many livery events accompanying my father, Christopher Bull. My great grandfather, Stephen Bird, was Master in 1913-14 – a tenure that was to see the outbreak of the First World War in July 1914.
Unfortunately, Stephen’s only son, Eric was to be killed in that war, and the Tylers and Bricklayers thus missed a generation of this particular branch of the extensive Bird family until my father joined the Company in 1988.
I was delighted when my eldest son, Edward, became a member of the Company in 2010, making three generations of the family in the Livery at the same time until my father’s death in 2021.
I was born in London, and brought up and educated in Grimsby, Lincolnshire. I trained as a paediatric nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital, during which time I met my husband Nigel, a GP, and moved to Norfolk where we still live. We brought up our four sons there, and I started and owned a nursery school which kept me busy for 17 years, only retiring when our first grandchild was born. My husband has also retired, and we spend a great deal of time visiting our family- the grandchildren now number seven! I enjoy music, and sing with two local choirs, as well as enjoying country walks around Norfolk.
I was first admitted to the Court in 2014, only the second lady to do so. I thoroughly enjoyed my three year term and was delighted to be appointed to Court for a second term in 2020, progressing in subsequent years to become our second lady Master. I am pleased that my father knew of this likelihood prior to his death. He would also have been thrilled at his grandson’s recent admission to the Court.
The installation of the new Master took place as usual at St Margaret Lothbury, filled to capacity with members of the Company in fine voice. The Court had processed from Carpenters’ Hall to the church led by banner bearer Court Assistant Cdr Edward Rolls, followed by the Master, Mistress, Wardens, Clerk, Honorary Chaplain and other members. Dodging the building works on Lothbury on a thankfully dry day, we were welcomed at the church by the Rector, Revd Prebendary Jeremy Crossley.
The officers processed to the front of the nave and the Clerk welcomed members and guests of the Company. The outgoing Master, Christopher Causer, called forward the Master Elect, Jenny Rolls. After
swearing an oath to the Company, Jenny was clothed in the Master’s gown and jewel to rapturous applause. The new Master then in turn proceeded to install the new Upper Warden, Alan Dodd, and the new Renter Warden, David White. She finally announced the Deputy Masters for the coming year, Christopher Causer and John Schofield.
The Annual Service took place immediately afterwards, starting with the hymn Praise my soul, the King of Heaven followed by a warm welcome by the Rector. The introit was The Blue Bird by Charles Villiers Stanford, sung wonderfully by the Lothbury singers. Prayers were given by the Company Chaplain, the Venerable Dr Jonathan Smith. The Master’s lesson was Luke Chapter 10, ‘Jesus visits Martha and Mary’.
Jonathan gave an uplifting and thoughtful address on the difference between being and doing, referring to this story of Martha and Mary. He explored how contemplation and activity may sit as positive and complementary dispositions. Two women with close association with the Master’s home city of Norwich were cited as examples. Mother Julian, the anchoress who lived in a religious cell and devoted her life to prayer and spiritual writing, which we may read today as ‘Revelations of Divine Love’ and Nurse Edith Cavell who served without fear or favour during the First World War and whose words shortly before her death by firing squad were “patriotism is not enough, I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone”. Such lessons, Jonathan suggested, may be applied to a worshipful livery company. The Tylers and Bricklayers enjoy a fellowship and friendship which is precious but it does not exist solely for the benefit of itself but to promote excellence in the industry thus ensuring the highest standards and beauty through its craft. The Tylers and Bricklayers in fostering excellence not only adds to the sum of human contentment but is crucial in the maintenance of safety and security. The address concluded with words of Mother Julian “For until I am united to Him I cannot know love or rest or true happiness, that is, until I am so one with Him that no created thing can come between my God and me”.
Following tradition we closed with the National Anthem and the Tylers and
Bricklayers Company March by Edward Nesbitt. The music throughout was perfectly chosen, the organist being our Director of Music, Richard Townend, who had made the selection with the Master.
We took a speedy walk back to Carpenters’ Hall, where the new Master and Wardens welcomed members and guests to a champagne reception. This was followed by an exceptional lunch of London cured smoked salmon, braised Hereford beef and treacle tart with ice cream. The food was perfectly complemented by Gilvesy Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2022, Chateau Brisson 2016 and fine old madeira, all chosen by the wine committee.
After a sung grace and the Loyal and Civic toasts, the guests were introduced by Court Assistant Tom Christopherson. He welcomed principal guest Dr Loyd Grossman CBE, the Master Carpenter (on home territory), Kiyan Rahman, our newly bound apprentice and our presentee at Christ’s Hospital, and his parents Nazia and Sharfiur Rahman. Concluding a very entertaining speech, Tom proposed a toast to our guests.
Dr Loyd Grossman responded on behalf of the guests. His name is known to many members and guests from the creation of his own successful food brand, also as a broadcaster, author and for his contribution to arts and culture. In an amusing address Dr Grossman reflected that a week ago we elected the 696th Lord Mayor of the City
of London, Alderman Alastair King DL. Loyd was only the 503rd Master Carpenter and in the same period there had been 266 Popes. He mused that the City of London was a place where people were never knowingly underdressed, and the Lord Mayor’s show was a wonderful charity disguised as a panto.
With wide-ranging involvements, he focused on the Royal Parks and his role as chairman for the last eight years, citing a number of staggering statistics. 80 million visitors per annum, 17 1/2 miles of wall, 2289 specimens of wildlife, 147 listed buildings, 450,000 plants, 60,000 geraniums, 170,000 trees, of which 17,000 were plane trees. He concluded with his advice to behave like a tree: “Stand up straight, drink lots of water and remember how important your roots are”.
The Master responded that she was honoured to be elected as the 443rd Master of the Company since records began, the second lady master and the first “ladybird”. Birds have been central to the Company since the 1800s, initially as highly respected builders. Over the years there have now been twentytwo Bird Masters and she was delighted to continue the family tradition.
Her theme for the year is Good Fellowship, engendering a convivial spirit and encouraging kindness and thoughtfulness.
We look forward to a fine year with our first “ladybird” at the helm.
It has been a great honour to serve as Master for the 2023-24 year – I have had a very varied and enjoyable twelve months and so has the Mistress.
One of a livery company’s main duties is supporting the Lord Mayor of the City of London and the two Sheriffs. This year we have done that with vigour. Starting with the Lord Mayor’s Show, where the Master and Wardens parade in style wearing their bonnets and gowns, and then proceeding through the Big Curry Lunch, where we take more liverymen and guests than most other companies, Common Hall for the election of the Sheriffs, and then Common Hall to elect the next Lord Mayor (it is only liverymen of City livery companies who may vote), the Tylers and Bricklayers have been prominent in their numbers.
As Master I have been lucky enough to attend a dinner at the Mansion House (the
Lord Mayor’s residence for his year of office) with the King and the Queen – they came to the Square Mile to thank the City institutions for our help with the Coronation – and also the ‘normal’ celebratory dinner with the Lord Mayor and the Sheriffs in mid year.
In June, Gilly and I took part in the Livery Weekend with the Masters and Consorts of the other 110 Livery companies, plus some outliers from Glasgow, York and Sheffield, where activities ranged from banquets to mudlarking on the banks of the Thames.
And this year the Lord Mayor came to us! Michael and Elisabeth Mainelli kindly agreed to attend the Triennial Awards, where the Lord Mayor presented the prizes, and then joined us for the splendid lunch in Vintners’ Hall. It is some time since we have entertained the Lord Mayor so it was a day to remember for our Company. Michael and Elisabeth, who had been our guests when
Christopher Causer Immediate Past Master
Michael was Sheriff in Michel’s year, were entertaining as ever and the Lord Mayor commented in his speech on the well known friendliness of the Ts&Bs.
In my speech at the Installation last October, I highlighted the significance of Family in our Company, and during the year I have had numerous reminders of this. There are half a dozen families which have over the years supplied a steady stream of liverymen and Masters (see They Built London from p181).
Jenny Rolls is the great grand-daughter of Past Master Stephen Bird. She is the 22nd Bird Master and that is quite something. It serves to remind people what a truly ancient company we are.
The Fuller family is another prominent clan. During my year we had three generations in the Company at the same time – Peter (who was a Past Master and Father of the Company and sadly died in September – see the appreciation at p44), Jeff (a Past Master) and Jeff’s son Jack. Peter’s brother David was also Master in his time and died in the spring (see the appreciation at p45).
And now, following the death of Peter Fuller, we may have joint Fathers of the Company in Past Masters Nicholas Ward and Nicholas Carter. Nicholas Ward was the fifth Ward to be Master and Nicholas Carter’s father was himself Father of the Company! I find this enduring contribution by many generations to be part of the explanation for our remarkably collegiate and friendly Livery.
So do bring along your children and nephews and nieces to events. It takes years, but at some point in the future they will decide to join us!
I wish Jenny all success in her year and I know she and Nigel will be well supported by all of us.
Chairing a Court Meeting
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE LORD MAYOR ALDERMAN PROFESSOR MICHAEL MAINELLI
THE MANSION HOUSE, LONDON EC4N 8BH TELEPHONE 020-7626 2500
Mr Christopher Causer
Master
The Worshipful Company of Tylers & Bricklayers c/o 25, Glenferrie Road St Albans ALl 4JT 6 September 2024
I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for hosting the Lady Mayoress and me at the Triennial Awards and Luncheon at Vintners' Hall yesterday. We had a wonderful time, and I must thank you for the book They Built London, that you so kindly gifted. I look forward to reading about the history of the Company.
The event was a truly memorable occasion, and it served as a powerful reminder of the deep and historic relationship between the Mayoralty and the Livery. It was especially gratifying to witness the recognition of the construction industry, a sector that plays such a vital role in shaping our city's infrastructure and future. The Livery's steadfast support of this industry, particularly through awards like these, highlights the enduring commitment to excellence and innovation that helps drive progress.
The professionalism, dedication, and sense of duty demonstrated by the Livery and its members are without question. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you once again for your invaluable service to both the City and the construction industry.
Once again, many thanks for your generous hospitality, and may I extend the Lady Mayoress' and my own very best wishes to you and your members.
With my very best wishes,
The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of London Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli
Election of Sheriffs took place on Monday 24 June. After Aldermanic candidates had taken both roles of Sheriffs in 2023 we returned this year to having an election for the non-Aldermanic Shrieval role which was uncontested.
Alderman Gregory Jones KC and David Chalk were elected as the next Sheriffs of the City of London at Guildhall’s Common Hall. They took office on Friday 27 September, holding the position for a year, succeeding
Alderwoman Dame Susan Langley and Alderman Bronek Masojada.
The office of Sheriff of the City of London, a pre-requisite for becoming Lord Mayor, is one of the oldest in existence and dates back to the Middle Ages.
The Sheriffs’ modern-day duties include supporting the Lord Mayor in his or her civic duties and serving – both, at home and abroad – as ambassadors for the UK-based financial and professional services industry by promoting the UK as a place in which to do business. Based at the Old Bailey, the office is an integral part of the City’s support for the rule of law.
The Lord Mayor is traditionally elected three months after the Sheriffs at a second Common Hall in Guildhall to which all eligible liverymen of the City of London are summoned to attend. This took place on the Michaelmas quarter-day, Monday 30 September and Alderman Alastair King DL will take office in November. The theme of his year will be Ambition, Renewal, Growth Alastair served as Aldermanic Sheriff in 2022-23 and as Master of the Masons’ Company in 2023-24. He will succeed Alderman Michael Mainelli as Lord Mayor.
The Master and a number of Tylers and Bricklayers visited the Worshipful Company of Gunmakers at their offices in Whitechapel on 21 November 2023 and were shown around by their Assistant Clerk.
The Worshipful Company of Gunmakers was founded in 1637, after decades of argument over which City Company would regulate the emerging trade of gunmaking.
The first recorded use of gunpowder and cannon by an English army was at Crecy in 1346 – a sort of curtain raiser for the longbows. However, guns were not seen as an essential element of warfare until the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. Sound cannon and good tactics enabled the small and swift British fleet to cut a swathe through the lumbering Spaniards. After that, the supply of guns became a matter of national importance.
A Royal Commission was created in 1631 and on its recommendation, an independent Gunmakers’ Company was granted a Royal Charter by Charles I on 14 March 1637 –although even after that further bureaucratic opposition, plus the outbreak of civil war,
delayed enforcement of the Gunmaker’s Charter until 1656. So, it’s still a very young company!
The Gunmakers created a proof mark, a stamp of the letters ‘GP’ surmounted by a crown. This mark was stamped on all guns that met the statutory safety requirements and it was to the ‘Proof Room’ and to view the processes used to mark all guns, which the Master, Christopher Causer and his fellow Tylers & Bricklayers went. Only the Gunmaker’s Company can bestow proof, and it is illegal to sell a gun without a recognised proof mark.
Record of Proof Marks over the ages
The Company is unique in having always had its premises outside the City walls, possibly due to the noise and nuisance of its early (and now superceded)
The next mayoralty will commence on Friday 8 November after being sworn into office at the Silent Ceremony. The Lord Mayor’s Show follows the next day.
The Nominations Committee of the Court of Aldermen has indicated that Alderwoman Dame Susan Langley will be the Mayoral candidate in 2025-26, subject to election by the Livery. She would be the third woman to take the role.
Keith Aldis Court Assistant
proof procedures. It established its first proof house in 1657 underneath a bulwark near Aldgate. By the 1670s, the walls, bulwark and proof house were crumbling, so in 1675 the Company secured some land in a physic garden at Whitechapel, on what is now the Commercial Road. There it built a small compound which included the proof house where the actual work of testing barrels was done, as well as a livery hall and, in earlier centuries at least, housing for the Proof Master. The livery hall at 46 Commercial Road was sold in the 1920s, when the Company thought it superfluous to requirements, but it was repurchased in 2007.
Following what was a very enjoyable and informative visit in the tradition of the Tylers and Bricklayers, the Master escorted colleagues off to Brick Lane (very apt!) for a most enjoyable curry.
The beautiful church of St Margaret Lothbury was once again the setting for the Annual Carol Service on 14 December 2023. This was only my second T&B carol service, but I found myself agreeing with the many members of the Company for whom it marks the true start of Christmas.
The 2022 service the previous year had taken place on a very cold evening and the heating system in the church had struggled to banish the chill from the air. There were no such concerns in 2023, with the temperature inside the church almost as warm as the welcome from the Rector, the Reverend Prebendary Jeremy Crossley.
In keeping with tradition, the service began with Once in Royal David’s City. The church lights were dimmed for the evocative solo first verse, with the second verse being sung by the Lothbury Singers under the direction of Honorary Freeman Richard Townend. The congregation then joined in for the remaining verses, accompanied by Richard on the organ. All were in fine voice, and the church was filled with wonderful music.
The six lessons were read by the Clerk, Liverymen, Wardens and the Master, interspersed with carols sung by the Lothbury Singers alone or by the full congregation.
The Venerable Dr Jonathan Smith, the Company’s Honorary Chaplain, gave a thought-provoking address in which he reminded us, via an anecdote about festive shopping and a rose bowl, of the true
meaning of Christmas. Dr Smith quoted from the carol In the Bleak Midwinter, where the most important gift is not a material possession, but love.
After the Blessing, the Lothbury Singers gave a beautiful performance of Stille Nacht, and the full congregation then rose for Hark! The Herald Angels Sing We left the church to the magnificent sound of an organ voluntary with my guests remarking on the high quality of the music we had been fortunate to enjoy throughout the service.
I, and many of the congregation then made our way to the Armourers’ Hall, where we enjoyed a champagne reception followed by an excellent supper. The Master gave a short speech in which he thanked David Wylie, retiring as Beadle to the Company, for his many years of service. Members of the Company
had contributed to a gift of a decanter and glasses which the Master presented. With the formalities concluded, members and guests lingered convivially over coffee in the hall before dispersing into the December night, with the starting gun officially fired on their Christmas festivities.
A roaring fire and a glass of champagne in a lovely ‘old fashioned’ bowl-shaped glass was a stylish way to start the Court and Livery Dinner on 1 February, held at Cutlers’ Hall. The novelty of drawing a number to find your seat, thus sitting with members you might not know, was a great way to promote fellowship and conversation.
At the end of a delicious dinner with the best piece of roast beef I have tasted in a while, we were introduced to David and Shirley Hasler – the wonderful caterers who were retiring to the Philippines after 20 years cooking for the Cutlers and their guests. The Tylers and Bricklayers bade them farewell with a bottle and flowers. Also receiving bottles were the worthy winners of the Photographic Competition: Lesley Day, Ian Harmond and Frank Clarke.
Past Master Philip Parris, Chairman of the Wine Committee, gave a fascinating explanation of the process, as well as the financial and enjoyment benefits, of buying wine particularly in a good year, and then laying them down for a suitable period of time. He remembered buying both the red wines we consumed during the main course; the Château Potensac 2009 was bought in an exceptional year, but a show of hands confirmed that the Château Angludet 2013 bought during a difficult year for wine, had much improved and was deemed to be the favourite.
The Toast to the Company was given by Liveryman Dr Roy Palmer and a stirrup cup was served to complete a great evening of feasting.
In the spring of 2023, the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers launched its Craft Bursary Scheme. The scheme provides financial support and mentoring to students undertaking craft training with a recognised training provider.
The scheme is open to anyone between the ages of 16 and 66 who will be undertaking a recognised form of craft training which relates directly to one of our three crafts. Training may be full time or part time and can cover either modern or heritage crafts, running from September in each year. The
scheme is open to employed, self-employed and unemployed students with successful applicants receiving £1,000, together with help and support from a Craft Mentor provided by the Company.
In 2023 the Company awarded five such bursaries, and the scheme was well received by colleges, industry bodies and the trainees and apprentices alike.
Applications for the 2024 awards scheme opened in the spring and over 30 applications were received. After completing
a rigorous vetting process, 10 were finally selected to receive a Craft Bursary this year. Congratulations go out to all these tradespeople, and we look forward to receiving many more applications in 2025.
Please spread the word so we can make this programme accessible to as many people as possible. The T&B scheme can not only provide much needed financial assistance and technical support direct to future trades people but also encourage more people qualified in crafts into our industry, something that is desperately needed.
This year the Craft Awards moved from Trinity House to the magnificent venue of Goldsmiths’ Hall in order to accommodate more members and guests. Positioned at the junction of Foster Lane and Gresham Street, the current building is the third Goldsmiths’ Hall, completed in 1835 and constructed on a site which has been home to the Goldsmiths’ Company since 1339.
The awards luncheon on 19 March was preceded as is customary by a meeting of the Court. As part of the Court proceedings three new Freemen were admitted to the Company: Peter Anthony Owen Higson, Robin Mathew Nowell and Paul James Gregory. Following this three new Liverymen, all Free of the City of London were also clothed: Deborah Bronwen Burman, David Alan Hulin and Simon Dixon.
Having collected menu and seating plan while in the very stylish Entrance Hall of this splendid building, members and guests made their way up the grand staircase where a very friendly welcome awaited them from the Master Chris Causer, the Upper Warden Jenny Rolls and Renter Warden Alan Dodd. They then passed into the two large reception rooms at the front of the building for a Champagne Reception. This year 170 members and guests were able to attend the luncheon, up by 37 on the number attending
the previous year’s awards. A lot of discussion therefore took place meeting with both old and new acquaintances. At 1pm sharp the call was made for the assembled guests to go through to the banqueting hall and take their places at table, ready to receive the procession of the Master, Wardens, and honoured guests.
The sumptuously decorated banqueting hall in Goldsmith’s, with its Corinthian columns of scagliola and richly decorated, moulded ceiling boasts four fabulous matching chandeliers of English glass supplied by Perry & Co. While these can be famously lit with hundreds of candles for dinners, alas they would not be required for our luncheon. The venue not only provided the perfect backdrop to this very special event in our Company’s calendar but also the setting to recognise the achievements of all the worthy winners.
The procession to the head of the table was met with the customary handclap from all attending. Grace was given by the Honorary Chaplain.
In his welcome, the Master commented that it was very gratifying to see that so many had taken the opportunity to meet in person once again. This Tylers and Bricklayers’ Craft Awards and Luncheon was the largest gathering for years. Regarded by many members as one of the most significant events in the Company calendar, it is the one that showcases young craftsmen and women beginning their careers; those who teach, train and mentor them, and those who in the opinion of their peers should be recognised as Master Craftsman, demonstrating the very highest standards in their craft. Members, guests and prize winners all having been warmly welcomed by the Master, luncheon began.
The starter of Charred Cornish Mackerel with burnt baby leeks, caramelised roscoff onions, confit tomato sauce with crispy capers and tarragon was served accompanied by Zapallares Reserve Chardonnay from Chile 2020.
The main course of Breast of Creedy Carver Duck, roasted cauliflower puree, spiced carrot puree, wild mushrooms, flava beans and jus followed accompanied by Armigero Sangiovese di Romagna Riserva Red wine.
Desert comprised of Chocolate Honey Cremeaux, honey tuile, roasted chocolate and clotted cream ice cream. All accompanied by Grahams LBV port.
The Master, following the Loyal Toast and toast to our guests and offered the Company’s gratitude to all those who assisted with the arrangements, assessment, and presentation of the 2024 Craft Awards. He particularly welcomed our Principal Guest Lieutenant General Sir Mark Mans KCB CBE DL who has been a liveryman of this company since 2018.
Sir Mark gave a passionate speech covering a condensed history of the Royal Engineers, listing their major achievements, and concluded with a recruitment call for more young men and women to consider careers in the regiment.
Debby Burman gave the customary toast to the Company as a newly clothed Liveryman.
The presentation of the company’s 2024 Craft Awards followed. All present had received a brochure for these Craft Awards with information about the prizes and the winners. Court Assistant and new Chair of the Craft Committee Ian Wilson announced the
awards and winners in turn, with an amusing element of adlibbing in his introductions, which caused spontaneous laughter amongst the audience. As each winner walked to the stage they were rightfully applauded, to be congratulated by The Master and to have the awards and certificates handed to them By Sir Mark Mans. Photographs were taken on the stage, and again enthusiastic applause from the audience as the winners returned to their seats.
Three awards were granted to young men and women from the Royal Engineers and Army Cadet Force in the London district, all of whom had demonstrated excellence in construction-related skills during their training. Class 1 awards are drawn from a smaller group than the Class 2 group and includes supervisory skills as part of the syllabus. In addition to these three, a fourth award is granted to the best Adult Volunteer: The winners were as follows:
The Stokes Royal Engineers and Cadet Force Award 2024:
Class 1 winner 2024
LCPL Nicholas Carr
Class 2 winner 2024
Sapper Tyrone Harris
Best Cadet Winner 2024
Cadet CPL Max Manson
Best Adult Volunteer Winner 2024
PI Sue Strange
Three awards were also granted to SkillBuild winners. Delivered annually by CITB Skillbuild is the largest multi-trade competition in the UK for construction trainees and apprentices. The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers recognises and rewards the winners of the finals at WorldSkills UK, covering each of our three crafts.
The winners were as follows:
The E & R Fuller Award for Bricklaying 2024
Joseph Shingler
The Mason-Elliott Award for Roofing and Tiling 2024
Jacob Blight
The Montgomery Award for Wall and Floor Tiling 2024
Patryk Niedoba
Unfortunately, this year there were no awards for Master Craftsman – a shame as there are many accomplished in our crafts who deserve such an accolade but need to be put forward.
The Master made his customary closing remarks and requested the worthy winners join him and the Wardens after the procession to sign the Company’s Register and to have group photographs taken. The Master, Wardens and honoured guests processed from the Banqueting Hall again to clapping from the gathered guests. It was a special occasion both for members and guests, and sure to be remembered by those receiving prizes.
Having endured what felt like one of the longest, wettest winters on record, it was a delight when the sun shone for the 2024 Guest Banquet at Merchant Taylors’ Hall on 8 May.
The Merchant Taylors’ Company, one of the Great Twelve, began as an association of working tailors, known originally as the Fraternity of St John the Baptist of Tailors and Linen-Armourers. This Fraternity was formally recognised when it received its first royal charter in 1327. It has occupied the same site on Threadneedle Street since at least 1347; the only ancient livery company to remain on its original site. Some parts of the grade II listed hall date from the late 17th century (having been built after earlier ones were destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666) and was restored again after sustaining bomb damage during the Second World War. The Company’s organ is a source of great pride; it is the only remaining working organ in a livery hall. It is situated high on the east gallery of the Great Hall and it prominently bears two dates having been built in 1966 by Noel Mander but reusing pipes originally from a 1722 Renatus Harris organ.
Master Chris Causer, Upper Warden Jenny Rolls and Renter Warden Alan Dodd welcomed the 180 or so members and guests to the reception, and it was a pleasure for all to sip glasses of champagne and meet friends and fellow Freemen and Liverymen in the warm sunshine of the courtyard which was open to the skies. Before too long it was time to take our places in the Great Hall for the banquet itself.
Grace was said by the Honorary Chaplain the Venerable Dr Smith and then it was time to enjoy the meal laid on for us. We began with a salmon and lemon sole terrine accompanied by Roodekrantz Chenin Blanc, followed by rump of lamb accompanied by Chateau du Moulin Rouge 2015, and for dessert glazed lemon tart with dessert wine
Fonmourgues Monbazillac.
One of the delights of dining with the Tylers and Bricklayers is that until you see the table plan you do not know who you will be seated with. Malcolm and I were delighted to be seated near the Master’s daughter and son in law, and also Swedish guests Anders Arven and his wife Eva, two of the twenty-five guests present from the Stockholm Guild of Masons. There followed a fascinating chat with views expressed on a variety of subjects, all with a smile on our faces.
The Sung Grace is a regular feature of formal Livery dinners, but accompanied here with the organ played by Honorary Freeman Richard Townend. Thankfully for our newer members and Company guests, the words were as usual conveniently placed in the menu card. After this coffee was served. There followed the traditional toasts to The King, The Royal Family and The Lord Mayor.
A musical interlude took place on the magnificent organ played by Adrian Mumford. This included the Grand March from Aida by Giuseppe Verdi, Prelude on Rhosymedre by Ralph Vaughan Williams and the Gibraltar March by Denis Bédard.
In his Toast to the Guests, Court Assistant Martin Reading welcomed all the guests including Ms Judith Cobham-Lowe, Past Prime Warden Goldsmith, Former Lord Mayor of London and now Master Wax Chandler, Dame Fiona Woolf, Tyler and Bricklayer Liveryman now Master Gardener, Mr Nicholas Woolf, Mr Adrian Mumford, Clerk to the Plumbers’ Company and Senior Court Assistant to the Musicians’ Company. Martin went on to welcome the delegation from Murmestre Embetet in Stockholm with their Deputy Master Mr Svante Hagman and his partner Monika and hoped that this will be the start of a long and beneficial relationship between both organisations.
The Tylers and Bricklayers Company have a close relationship with the armed forces and a special welcome was made to Lt Cdr Nick Radue, Commanding Officer of our affiliated ship, HMS Magpie and his partner Alexandra Whitely. Col Commandant of the Royal
Engineers Major General Aidan Smyth and two junior officers, 2nd Lt Jack Crawford and 2nd Lt Bailey Holman were also welcomed.
Our guest speaker for the evening receiving a special welcome was the Very Revd Mark Oakley, Dean of Southwark Cathedral, accompanied by his partner Mr Nicholas Laws. Finally Martin asked all Company members to stand and raise a glass to all the Company guests.
Dr Mark Oakley responded to the toast on behalf of the Guests and spoke of the history of the Cathedral and the work carried out by Thomas Rider, commemorated in a window in the nave. He went on to speak of time spent in hospital when he realised of the importance of family and relationships, and looking to the future but remembering the past. He congratulated the Company on its charitable activities and thanked it for the support of the three crafts of roofing, bricklaying and wall and floor tiling. The Dean asked all to stand and toast the Company and the Master.
In his response, the Master Chris Causer opened by saying a welcome in Swedish to our guests from Stockholm and hoped that there would be a long-term cooperation between the Livery and the Guild. He also said how much he valued the relationship with Southwark Cathedral and was pleased to present the Dean with a copy of the Company History. He continued encouraging entries for the 2024 Triennial Awards thanked Adrian Mumford, Richard Townend, the Company Clerk and the Beadle for their involvement in the Banquet.
After the Master and principal guests left the Hall, there was time for some to enjoy a Stirrup Cup whilst others made their departure for home.
It is fair to say that the Guest Banquet in May each year continues to be one of our principal Company events and gives members and guests an opportunity to sample some excellent food and wine in wonderful surroundings. The 2024 event in Merchant Taylors’ Hall will be remembered for many years to come.
“The best thing I have ever done”
Editors Note: Kate Longworth is currently serving an apprenticeship under Master Builder and Liveryman Emma Simpson MBE. In March 2023 Kate received a grant of £750 from the Tylers and Bricklayers in support of the costs of undertaking a SPAB Fellowship. Kate talks about her career and how she discovered her love for Bricklaying.
In retrospect, I have always been well suited to a career in bricklaying, but it took a winding path of chance encounters and experiences for me to realise and then pursue it.
After a decade of working for the police, in 2016 I had a conversation with my dad – an artist and teacher – about the value of working in a field that you loved. The problem was I didn’t know what I loved, but I knew I wanted to work with my hands, so after some soul-searching (and budget planning!) I set my mind to learning a trade.
After dozens of applications and a couple of failed interviews I broadened my search from just carpentry to any trade, and in 2018 I was offered a bricklaying apprenticeship. I was excited for the change, but I didn’t anticipate falling immediately in love with bricks. From my first day at college, bricklaying has been my passion. I am sad to say though that bricklaying was not what I initially had in mind while applying for apprenticeships; I was like a lot of people I meet, unaware of the artistry and beauty involved in quality brickwork. That has now motivated me to influence others with the thought of seeing bricklaying as a craft with (at very least) equal status to stonemasonry or fine carpentry.
During my first year train ing at the Building Crafts College, I had the oppor tunity to visit Hampton Court Palace and be shown some of the brick conservation work going on there, including chimney re builds. This visit changed the course of my career for two reasons. I had never seen joints so finely finished; I hadn’t even heard of gauged brickwork and I had no idea what a red
Kate Longworth T&B Grant Recipient
hosted by master bricklayer, Emma Simpson
much, and showed me that it would accomplished and respected male dominated profession. Since changing my career,
experts and hone my craft. I get real pleasure from seeing the quality of my work while pursuing understanding have worked on some
incredible buildings and am learning from talented craftspeople who care about the buildings they work on and the quality of their work, and are generous and passionate about passing on their skills. It’s infectious and has become something more than a job to me. In my spare time I read about bricklaying and conservation, I attend workshops and lectures, and I seek out buildings to draw, learn from and admire.
It’s funny to think back to having to ‘stand and face the wall’ as a punishment at school; little did I know how much joy I’d get from staring at brick walls in future! Between March and December 2023 I spent six months travelling the country completing the SPAB (Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings) William Morris Craft Fellowship. This very unique training programme has been invaluable to my learning and progression and broadened my experience and knowledge of traditional crafts, historic buildings and repair techniques. It introduced me to a large network of crafts people and heritage professionals and helped me to form my own philosophy on building conservation –which is forever evolving!
I was extremely grateful to receive generous financial support from the Tylers and Bricklayers which contributed to the costs of
travelling and living away from home during the course and enabled me to fully immerse myself in learning new skills and techniques. One particular highlight of the fellowship was to spend two weeks with the team at Bulmer Brick and Tile in Suffolk. Learning the history and process of brickmaking and gaining a comprehension of the material I use on a daily basis has been invaluable.
Though I now frequently work at Hampton Court Palace for Simpson Brickwork Conservation Ltd, I have never lost the awe I felt the first time I visited. It is a real privilege to be entrusted in the repair of such a historically significant building. We are currently working on a large decorative chimney project which is my brick dream (I have had to stop and pinch myself a few times).
Changing my career and starting afresh in a completely different field has come with its challenges but it’s also been the best thing I have ever done. Like my dad, I’ve now found what I love, and I’m not stopping for anybody. As I continue in my career I hope I am able to inspire people who rarely see representations of themselves in building trades – the women I have met on my journey have inspired me.
The Tylers and Bricklayers have a long history of maintaining professional standards within the City of London, with training and education being at the centre of this. The Company’s Craft, Triennial and Master Craftsman awards recognise the pinnacle of achievement, showcasing amazing skills across our three trades.
The T&B Craft Bursary Scheme has already proved to be very popular for trainees starting out on their journey within the crafts we support. Looking to the future of one’s career there are many opportunities for professional development. One such amazing organisation offering these is QEST.
Deborah Pocock, QEST’s CEO has attended our Craft Awards and sees scope for collaborative engagement and support for personal development:
The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) was founded by the Royal Warrant Holders Association in 1990 in the name of the Queen Mother on the occasion of her 90th birthday. We are deeply honoured that HM The King is the charity’s Patron.
Through its charitable activities, QEST transforms the careers of talented and aspiring craftspeople by funding their training and education at pivotal moments in their craft journeys to excellence.
Since 1990, the charity has awarded some £6.5 million to almost 800 craftspeople working across the UK in a broad range of traditional and contemporary craft skills. Ceramicists, mosaicists, sculptors, embroiderers, thatchers, woodworkers, printmakers, buildings conservators and many
more have all honed their skills with help from QEST – often becoming leaders in their field – and making a vital contribution to the UK’s craft sector, valued at £3.4 billion.
Regularly receiving over 450 applications per annum for its Scholarship, Emerging Maker and Apprenticeship programmes, in recent years QEST has awarded around 60 individual grants per year, some £500,000. In 2023, across all its programmes, the charity gave away a total of £731,000, the largest amount in any one year since its inception.
Alongside the funding for skill development, since 2022 QEST has provided its grant recipients with business skills training through its partnership with Cockpit – home of maker studios and business incubation in London’s Bloomsbury and Deptford. This training is pivotal to makers in the development of their careers and practice.
Partnerships are key to QEST’s development, enabling the charity to broaden its impact and develop a diverse pipeline of creative and craft talent. We are now in the fourth year of our Building Arts Programme, run in partnership with The King’s Foundation. This nine-month long practical programme explores the interdisciplinary nature of architecture, traditional craft skills and the applied arts; and how these practices and trades inform the built environment.
In addition, over the past few years we have launched and piloted three major new programmes/partnerships to inspire and engage the next generation of professional makers, particularly from disadvantaged and under-represented communities. The first
in November 2022, was with the National Saturday Club to create Craft&Making Clubs for 13–16-year-olds across the UK to develop their craft and making skills. We now have ten Clubs, from Devon to Blackburn.
In Autumn 2023, we launched two further programmes and partnerships; Know-How Craft Studio with Intoart – a pioneering visual arts organisation for people with learning disabilities to be visible, equal and established artists; and Making the Future with Education and Employers, raising awareness of the opportunities to study and work in craft and conservation amongst secondary school children, teachers and parents – breaking down the stereotypes and assumptions that young people have around the craft sector. It is critical that we all come together to provide access and opportunities for all – to inspire the next generation to become the makers and creators of the future. Together we can do more. For more information go to www.gest.org.uk
One recipient of a QEST Scholarship in 2020 was ceramic artist and maker, Frances Priest. Frances says “The opportunity to learn directly from the team at Craven Dunnill Jackfield has been invaluable to the development of my creative practice and business. The training has opened up exciting new applications for my ideas and grown the scale and ambition of my practice. I am now working on private residential projects and commissions in the public realm, using traditional and contemporary tile-making techniques to create unique tiled artworks that will last a lifetime and beyond.”
Deborah Pocock CEO QEST
The annual luncheon for Masters and their Clerks was held on 6 June at Brewers’ Hall.
We were honoured by the presence of the following Masters and Clerks:
Poulters – Mark Goodwin (and his Clerk: John Grant)
Joiners and Ceilers – John Garbutt KFO (and his Clerk: Tanyia Ingham)
Glaziers – Clive Osborne
Paviors – Melanie Hampton (and her Clerk: Jennifer Athill)
Builders’ Merchants – Alan Hawkins (and his Clerk: Lady Jane Hillard)
LIghtmongers – Peter McVeigh (and his Clerk: Lt Col Mark Houghton
Masons – Clerk: Major Giles Clapp
After an enjoyable Champagne Reception, the Master, Wardens and our principal guest, Professor Clare Jackson, together with the Clerk, the Honorary Chaplain and the visiting Masters processed into the hall. The day marked the 80th anniversary of D Day so the Honorary Chaplain delivered a special grace to fit the occasion.
Some 80 of us sat down to a delicious lunch. The menu consisted of Dorset crab accompanied by a South African Sauvignon Blanc from Elgin, followed by Herdwick lamb from Cumbria. With the lamb an Australian Pinot Noir, Sidewood 2019, was served. We continued with a raspberry tart, tea and coffee. Guests were also offered a delicious No 21 Fine Madeira.
Following the toasts, the Master introduced each of the distinguished guests – the six Masters and the six Clerks – saying how delighted he was to offer them hospitality and entertain them. He went on to explain that his choice of Brewers’ Hall was influenced by the Mistress – her father was a liveryman of
the Brewers’, being at the time a director of a brewing firm known as Courage Barclay & Simonds.
The Master warmly introduced the principal guest, Professor Clare Jackson who he described as: “a distinguished Cambridge historian who specialises in early modern history, particularly the 17th century in England and Scotland. She is an honorary professor at the University of Cambridge and for ten years was Senior Tutor at my old college, Trinity Hall, where she is a Fellow in History.”
Professor Jackson spoke about her research and especially about her book, Devil-Land: England under Siege 1588-1688 published in 2021. This period was we heard the most unstable, turbulent century in our nation’s history: one in which a bewildering number of radical events took place, often at rollercoaster speed, leaving contemporaries dazed and anxious.
In ending, Professor Jackson described a chapter in her upcoming book on King James
VI & I “…about James’s physical health that includes a description of a banquet that the King attended in May 1607 hosted by the Merchant Taylors’ Guild. On that occasion the assembled company enjoyed ‘224 tongues from various unfortunate animals; 59 pikes; 17 swans; 417 chickens; 10 owls; 1,300 eggs; 360 pounds of butter; 446 pounds of sugar; 14 gallons of cream; 28 barrels and a tun of beer and ale; about 441 gallons of wine; 24 pounds of prunes; 20 pounds of currants; 3 gallons of gooseberries; 60 pounds of potatoes; 120 artichokes and 14 pickled lemons.’ “
The Master duly thanked Professor Jackson for her entertaining and incident filled address and fully understood why people study history and still buy history books and historical novels in large quantities.
This concluded a most enjoyable and memorable luncheon.
Editors’ Note: As with many event reports in the Review, a fuller version is published on the T&B website
During the last week of June, 25 T&Bs and their partners set off north, and a few east, to the city of York for the ‘Master’s Trip’.
York is a small but stunning city that is probably best known for three things, its racecourse, its railway station and connection to the railway industry, and most importantly its Minster. York is second in the Anglican ‘pecking order’ to Canterbury – which was the venue for the previous year’s Master’s Trip.
Headquarters for the two days was the Principal Hotel, situated next to the station and close to the end of platform 6. This hotel was previously The Royal Station Hotel, and it maintains a definite feeling of Victorian grandeur. The location was excellent as the centre of York was a relatively short walk away.
However, the appointed meeting point for us all to gather was the market town of Easingwold with a population of 5000. In times gone by it would have been the first staging point for carriages heading north from York. After greeting one another, the focus was soon on lunch which was taken at the George Hotel opposite the market square. Mainly traditional fayre, with fish and chips of enormous proportions! And very tasty, I might add!
After lunch for our annual Craft Visit, we all took a short drive to York Handmade
brickworks next to the village of Alne. York Handmade is owned by David Armitage, a liveryman of the Company since 1990. David’s family have been involved in the brickmaking industry for many generations, and his son Guy continues on the tradition as Managing Director of the current business.
A relatively small brick producer, York Handmade offers a very high quality product predominately used in high end bespoke buildings all over the UK. Making a range of red and buff bricks in a traditional way, they have received many awards over the years. Recent investment has been made in a modern automated brickmaking plant, demonstrating their commitment to the future.
David, Guy and their team were extremely hospitable, and everyone enjoyed the visit which ended suitably with Yorkshire Tea and the mug to take away.
After heading to York, others checked in and we had time for a short breather before some walked over to the Minster to attend Evensong in the quire, an option suggested to us by the Master.
We all gathered later in the evening for an informal dinner at ‘Ask Italian’, located in the old Assembly Rooms. This is a Grade 1 listed building, and was designed by Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington, in the Palladian/Greek Revival style, and built between 1730 and 1735. It is possibly the earliest neoclassical
building in Europe. The Assembly Rooms would have been used for the great and good of York to gather and interact. We attempted to continue the tradition!
Returning to the hotel after dinner, we were all able to have a restful night before the following day’s excursion.
After breakfast, we boarded a coach for a 45 minute trip to the small village of Scampston. I’m not sure whether many of us had been to Scampston Hall before but it was full of pleasant surprises. Following a short welcome and introduction, we toured the walled gardens which extend to four acres in size, managed amazingly by only three full-time gardeners who obviously do a great job with knowledge and passion. The gardens are a splendid mixture of trees, shrubs and flowers put together in very innovative planting patterns. They were designed by the Dutch landscape designer, Piet Oudolf, who had some clear and unique ideas of his own how a garden should look. It was a wonderful experience in continuing great summer weather. After the tour we enjoyed a welcome cup of tea and a piece of Victoria Sponge in the Orangery.
Scampston Hall itself is owned and lived in by Christopher and Miranda Legard and their family. Christopher is a descendant of the St Quintin family who bought the hall towards the end of the 17th century, and it has remained in the family ever since. Originally brick built, it has been greatly extended and altered over time with a once fashionable
stuccoed frontage and sporting a domed roof. While perhaps not the most attractive building to view from the outside, once passing through the imposing front doors it becomes a surprising treasure trove of decoration, artefacts, paintings and antiques. All rich in history.
Unusually, visitors are allowed to wander around rooms without ropes and barriers. The rooms are still used by the family on a regular basis. The house had suffered from a long period of neglect. Whilst most of the rooms have now been fully restored following water ingress from a failing roof, some rooms have deliberately been left in a slightly stained state to show the extent of the damage. There are six exquisite works of Thomas Gainsborough in the house which must be worth a fortune. In addition, there is a collection of very rare porcelain, including Chelsea, Crown Derby, Minton and Sevres. Some of these items are still in use today which must be of some risk, but the family are keen for this to be the case. Our guide was excellent and conveyed a real passion for the family, the house and its contents and was able to feed us anecdotes which were charming. If you happen to be in the area, I recommend that you take the time to visit. You will not be disappointed as Scampston Hall and its gardens never fail to delight.
After a light lunch sheltering from the hot sunshine, we boarded the coach and headed back to York. Some took the opportunity to drop off en route to visit Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, one of three surviving halls built
for the guilds in York. The Merchant Adventurers were founded in the 14th century. The magnificent medieval Guild Hall was built in 1357. A great history! In 1430, the fraternity was granted a royal charter by Henry V1, as ‘the Mistry of Mercers’. In 1581, the Company was granted a royal charter by Elizabeth I as the Merchant Adventurers of York.
Tight for time, everyone got back to the hotel to dress for dinner. As you would expect, black tie was the order of the day, and we set off for the Mansion House, once again a short walk back into the centre of York.
This Grade 1 listed building, official residence for the Lord Mayor, has a very similar appearance to some London Livery halls. We were treated to an extremely enjoyable champagne reception downstairs before climbing the stairs to the grand state room for dinner. We had the opportunity to get to know other liverymen and their partners, including some relatively new to the Company, and exchange views on a number of subjects. The Master made an excellent speech, followed by the Upper Warden Jenny Rolls who thanked the Master and Mistress on behalf of members and guests for organising and hosting a superb trip over the two days. It takes a lot of thought and organisation, and they did an excellent job. Jenny presented them with a plant and a clay ‘year block’ for 2024.
As I write there are 111 Livery Companies in the City of London, but I venture to say that none can be better in terms of friendship and camaraderie than the Ts&Bs!
After the winter lay-up, the ship departed from our base port of Plymouth in excellent condition, fully shipshape and “Bristol fashion,” following significant maintenance.
Our first stop was Salcombe for an affiliate town visit, where we also conducted exercises with the Salcombe Lifeboat. This visit offered a great opportunity to open the ship to visitors, including our MAGPIE families. We hope to return to Salcombe for the November Ceremonies, as we did last year.
We then transited east along the south coast, stopping at Weymouth (a hometown visit for Matt, our Executive Officer), Brighton, Ramsgate, and London. In London, the ship hosted the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers. {See separate report}
The Company generously hosted my wife and me at the Annual Guests’ Banquet at Merchant Taylors’ Hall, which was a wonderful opportunity to learn about the Company’s charitable work and meet other affiliates.
From London, we set a course for Orkney at full speed for our first task of the survey season. Initially based out of Kirkwall to avoid the last of the spring weather, we surveyed the approaches to the city while enjoying the local wildlife, including Orca and puffins.
Lt Cdr Nick Radue RN Commanding Officer
Despite it being summer, Orkney remained characteristically cool, and we soon relocated to Stromness for operations in Scapa Flow and the Pentland Firth. During this period, in addition to gathering data, HMS MAGPIE as sisted with two MAYDAY calls, one involving a grounded fisherman and the other a stranded solo sailor. We also conducted wreck investi gations in Scapa Flow, with the data collected being used to assess the integrity of wrecks, some of which still contain fuel oil.
As mid-summer approached (although it hardly felt like summer in Orkney), the ship began her relocation to Swansea. We transited the Caledonian Canal to reach the west coast of Scotland, including a “hands-to-bathe” in Loch Ness. At the highest point on the canal, 106 feet above sea level, MAGPIE was the loftiest ship in the Fleet—though our bridge height was still lower than the carriers at sea level! The ship then visited Tobermory, Oban, Campbeltown, Kirkcudbright (a hometown visit for Hamish, the ship’s Coxswain), White haven, and Liverpool.
After our time in Liverpool, the ship’s company took a well-deserved two weeks of summer leave. We are now in Swansea and have com menced our next tasking, which will occupy us for the remainder of the survey season.
David White Renter Warden
On 14 March 2024 we were granted our first opportunity to visit our affiliated ship HMS Magpie and its crew in London when it came up the Thames and berthed at HMS President, the Royal Navy Reserve Base near St Katherine’s Dock.
The Master and Mistress and members of the HMS Magpie Liaison Group, chaired by Court Assistant Cdr Edward Rolls RN, gathered at HMS President and were greeted by the ship’s crew and Magpie’s new Commanding Officer, Lt Cdr Nicholas Radue RN.
Following a meet and greet and refreshments we had a safety briefing before boarding the ship and casting off.
Firstly, close to the HMS President pontoon mooring we witnessed the ship doing its key function, surveying the riverbed and watched the imaging appear in real time on the ships’ display screens.
Job done rapid progress was then made down river towards the Isle of Dogs under the control of Magpie’s latest helmsman, Master Chris Causer. He was relieved at the wheel for journey back by Freeman Radiah Ford, a member of the Liaison Group.
We eventually returned to the jetty and moored up just in time to witness Royal Marine raiding crafts set off as part of the historic ‘Ceremony of the Dues’ taking place nearby at the Tower of London, accompanied by a Commando Merlin helicopter from 845 Naval Air Squadron. Celebrating their 360th year, Royal Marines had been given this honour marking their illustrious history, also their place at the very forefront of UK Defence.
We made our way up to the riverside mess at HMS President where the Royal Navy had very generously laid on a light lunch.
A prize is now awarded annually to the member of the Ship’s Company who provides most to the general morale and well-being of the crew. The award, a framed certificate from the Company together with a cheque, was presented by the Master to LETME Taylor, the ship’s Engineer.
The Master followed with a few words thanking the CO and his crew for their hospitality and facilitating this opportunity for us to witness first-hand the operation of HMS Magpie in London.
On a recent visit to the Isle of Purbeck in the company of Past Masters of livery companies of my year (2005/6) we passed by Corfe Castle. To my surprise none of my colleagues knew that this ancient castle was where King Edward the Martyr was stabbed to death by his stepmother in 978, the event that is the reputed origin of the traditional, but now less observed, ceremony of the Loving Cup*.
This got me thinking about how the ceremony and etiquette of livery company dining has changed in the less formal world we now live in. Whilst today’s more relaxed atmosphere of our events makes them more approachable and friendly, I began to wonder if we have perhaps lost sight of some of the benefits behind formal dining etiquette. After all, it originated in the performance of good manners and a consideration for others.
‘Turning the table’ is the traditional practice of alternating speaking to the guests on either side of us as the courses change. It is good manners to converse at lunch or dinner with all around us and be conscious of any who are not being engaged in conversation. Allowing you and your neighbour time to eat, all conversation should be two-way. We men, especially, are often too keen to talk about ourselves!
Back in the day, not that long ago, there would be a break after the Loyal Toast, and before the speeches, so guests could leave the livery hall for a smoke or to visit the facilities. Until then it was expected that everyone would remain seated. While some companies still provide a short ‘rest’ break most don’t with the result that people may now think they can leave the table during the meal or, even worse, during speeches. Not, to my mind, ‘progress’.
I think all the Livery still ban or certainly discourage the use of mobile phones during formal functions. The making or taking of calls is simply unacceptable as is the taking of photographs unless the host has given prior permission to do so. Phones should surely be kept out of sight and switched to silent during a lunch or dinner. It is a time for good food and conversation – not forgetting the good wine!
And that brings me to the most annoying of the lost habits of formal dining. A failure to ‘pass the port’! Our lunches and dinners stand out as events where we are looked after and attentively served throughout, including with the first glass of port. But when decanters of port are placed on the table they are obviously there to be passed around so that those who wish can replenish their glasses. Too many of us fail in this required single performance of ‘self-service’!
There is a simple but important etiquette to be followed to make this work. After serving yourself, the port decanter is always passed to the left to the right side of your neighbour who should swiftly, if they wish, replenish their own glass and pass it on again to their left. To ensure this speedy passing of the port some livery companies and regiments of the armed forces observe the custom that the decanter should never touch the table thus ensuring that it does not rest with any diner. To facilitate this the Hogget decanter with a rounded bottom was invented!
Why is port always passed to the left? There are several theories including the need to keep the sword or revolver arm free in case of trouble (shades of the Loving Cup) or that it follows the Royal Navy rule of ‘Port to port’. More prosaically most people are right-handed!
But the rule is always keep the decanter moving along the table to the left while there is still port left in it. The only exception to this is at the top of a sprig where it joins the top table, where the port decanter is usually allowed to be passed across the sprig so that it can make its way down the other side.
What should you do if your neighbour does not pass the port? The old tradition was to ask your neighbour “Do you know the Bishop of Norwich?”. This was not the introduction to a maybe risqué joke. It gave the opportunity to explain that the Bishop of Norwich was a very nice fellow except for his very annoying habit of failing to pass the port decanter, sometimes it is suggested because of his falling asleep after imbibing too much. After one particular incident at Christ’s College, Cambridge in 1785 the following note was placed on his sermon in the College Chapel the following day:
The Bishop of Norwich is fond of his Port. Too fond, for the Villain won’t pass when he ought
But today it probably simpler, and certainly quicker, to nudge your neighbours, who may be new members or guests unfamiliar with what is required, to pass on the port if you see it has stopped moving. It can be extremely irritating to be sitting with an empty glass when you see decanters of port sitting stalled down the table. It can evoke some stormy thoughts!
And that is why we should always Pass the Port – and Avoid a Storm.
*The ceremony of the Loving Cup ensures that the person drinking from the cup is always protected on both sides.
PHOTO ATTRIBUTION: DARYN NAKHUDA, CC BY 2.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
How do you serve lunch to 1,650 people in a single venue in three hours? And when the guests include Royalty, the Lord Mayor, the Sheriffs, judges from the Old Bailey and senior officers in the British Army. This is the annual challenge facing the organisers of the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch which took place this year at Guildhall on Thursday 18 April.
The answer is three sittings, no seating plan, efficient service and table clearing, and essentially a degree of good-natured queuing on the part of the guests.
The Big Curry Lunch was first held in 2008 when about 700 guests ate lunch in a marquee in Guildhall Yard because the Guildhall kitchens were being refurbished. By 2016, the Lunch had grown to fill all of Guildhall, including the Old Library, Livery Hall and Crypt.
The event is an important fundraiser for the three national single service charities – the Army Benevolent Fund, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, and the RAF Benevolent Fund. It has raised over £3.7m since 2008 when back then British forces had only recently withdrawn from Iraq and were still engaged in operations in Afghanistan. The need to better support current and former servicemen and women and their families was very much coming into greater public attention. Thankfully these operations have since come to an end but the need to provide support to veterans and their families continues. The focus of the fundraising this year, as in the last couple of years, was employment and employability, specifically supporting veterans through the Pain Management
Programme at the King Edward VII Hospital Centre for Veterans’ Health and on the Lifeworks Course offered by RBLI (Royal British Legion Industries). This latter offers practical advice, guidance and support to veterans and their families to find employment, education or training.
This year 46 members of our Company and their guests gathered in the Livery Hall for a glass of champagne – certainly the largest group of Ts & Bs which has attended the Lunch to date. We joined the queue for the 1.15pm lunch sitting. My guest commented that it reminded him of the queue for a star attraction at Disneyland – just when you
Simon Martin Past Master
think that you have reached the front of the queue, you turn a corner and find that you have to ascend another staircase. Meanwhile the hubbub of conversation grows and the enticing scent of curry gets stronger. Eventually you reach the front of the queue in Guildhall, collect a plate of delicious curry and a glass of wine or a Cobra beer before finding a place at the tables laid out along the length of Guildhall.
During lunch, guests have an opportunity to bid in the Silent Auction for more than 70 lots ranging this year from tickets for the Last Night of the Proms, a two week holiday in a villa in the South of France, a private dinner with the Constable of Windsor Castle, a tour and lunch at the Reform Club (generously donated by Past Master John Schofield) or a week’s use of a Southwold Beach Hut (generously donated by Past Master Jeff Fuller). There is also a prize draw, champagne and cocktail bars and stalls manned by various livery companies including the Bakers, Turners, Fruiterers, Framework Knitters and Fishmongers. Of these, the Fishmongers were required to set up outside in Guildhall Yard, alongside the 2024 Veterans Garden, designed and planted by the WC of Gardeners.
After lunch, some of the T&B party regathered in the Old Library for coffee and further lively conversation. It was generally agreed that it had been a relaxed and enjoyable occasion this year raising an incredible £403,000 for a worthwhile cause. Hopefully, we return for the 18th Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch at Guildhall on 10 April 2025.
The Poulters’ Company have organised pancake racing in Guildhall Yard for over twenty years, and the 20th Inter-Livery Pancake Races were due to be held this year on 13 February. Unfortunately, the weather conditions (heavy rainfall) on this Winter’s day meant that the “British Weather Clause” had to be implemented, which states that if the course is deemed unsafe for the pancake races, an alternative competition of pancake tossing will take place.
Consequently, all Masters were duly lined up for the heats inside the Crypt, frying pans at the ready. Tylers and Bricklayers were
present in strength with around a dozen members and spouses loudly supporting our entrant, the Upper Warden Jenny Rolls.
The tension was high as the Masters and Wardens all competed at incredible speed to toss their pancakes as many times as possible in one minute. There were strict penalties applied for dropped pancakes, incorrect tosses and other breaches of the rules!
To the delight of the Tylers and Bricklayers, Jenny managed to get through to the finals with 67 tosses, a magnificent feat. The 10 finalists then lined up for the final toss up, with the excited crowd cheering on their own entrant. I think the Tylers and Bricklayers were the loudest supporters, especially as the race neared the end and it was evident that Jenny was doing really well, as the final whistle approached. And what a fantastic outcome – Jenny beat all the others to be crowned Victor Ludorum, with 80 tosses in one minute. What an incredible achievement and what an honour for the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers. Well done Upper Warden! This magnificent win has ensured a place for the Company at next year’s pancake races when volunteers will be needed to make up a team!
Liveryman Michael Ash had once again kindly agreed to sponsor this event. He sponsored
Jenny as a contestant plus an additional sum if she won or was in a close finish. Liverymen, spouses and friends wearing a floral buttonhole on outer clothing and even shiny shoes were also kindly sponsored by Michael. This raised £359 for our charities. Thank you, Michael, for this generous gift.
Following all the excitement of the events, everyone was served some very welcome mugs of hot soup followed by a buffet lunch with wines, and, of course, pancakes, all supplied by The Clink.
Once again, a wonderful time was had at this fun event by one and all.
This year marks 456 years since the signing of the Company’s first Charter in 1568 by Queen Elizabeth I and a guided tour of the City gardens was arranged by the Master to take place on the exact anniversary date 3 August.
The Master, accompanied by 23 Tylers and Bricklayers and guests, met at St Paul’s Cathedral. Our guide was Christine Jarvis, a City of London Guide Lecturer and a liveryman of the Water Conservators. She introduced us to the gin drinking habits of Queen Anne of whom a High Tory political opponent wrote that “it was fitting she was depicted with her rump to the church, gazing longingly into a wineshop”. The poor queen died in1714 from continued ill health and severe gout.
In Carter Lane Gardens we learnt of the use of Ginko trees which are being planted in the Square Mile as they don’t drop their leaves and can withstand winds that the new high rise buildings create. The garden is also the site of the National Firefighters memorial.
The group then proceeded to the Reflection Garden on the corner of Cannon Street designed to create a double view of the cathedral. Here one can sit in peaceful surroundings of sustainable planting in a space designed to attract birds bats and insects.
Passing through the Festival Gardens we were regaled with tales of hanging drawing and quartering near the site of Pauls Cross while admiring the only Douglas Fir in the City of London,named after David Douglas, a botanist, who first introduced the tree to England in 1827.
Next to St Vedast-alias-Fisher. In its quiet pretty courtyard is an ancient cuneiform stone set in the wall This was from Assyrian times and was presented to Canon Mortlock by Agatha Christie and her husband Sir Max Mallowan for the Canon’s contribution to Mallowan’s dig in Iraq during 1950-1965 when the stone was found.
Leaving St Vedast we arrived at a small courtyard, all that is left of St Peter West Cheap following the Great Fire of London. It is now home to a huge plane tree which is believed to be the oldest in the City.
After a short stop at Guildhall we passed to the ruins of St Mary Aldermanbury, also destroyed in the Great Fire but rebuilt by Wren. It was destroyed again in 1940 and the remaining fabric was given to Westminster College in Fulton Missouri in 1966 where the Church was restored as new. The gardens also house a monument to Henry Condell and John Heminges, topped with a bust of Shakespeare. Key figures in the production of the First Folio of William Shakespeare’s plays, they were buried in this churchyard.
Our next garden demonstrates how the City is rewilding areas creating wildlife corridors, and here adjacent to the Roman Wall and Plasterers’ Hall the last bit of visible bomb damage in the city is becoming a haven for wild plants insects and birds and animals.
The Goldsmiths Garden in the churchyard of St John Zachary was refurbished in 1994/5 mainly by the Gardeners Company with
assistance of the Lightmongers and contains the only statue dedicated to the printing industry in London.
Our penultimate visit, The Postman’s Park has a memorial to Heroic Self Sacrifice commemorating ordinary people who died saving the lives of others.
The park is also home to the City’s only Handkerchief Tree.
Our last garden was Christchurch Greyfriars. The church was bombed in WW2 and has been replaced with a beautiful garden.
It was a most enjoyable tour and we were very fortunate with the weather. The sun shone and it was not too hot. We all learnt many new facts about the City of London and were impressed by Christine’s knowledge of both the City of London history and the gardens we visited. Ready for a good lunch we repaired to Cote in Ludgate Hill. Many thanks to the Master and to our guide Christine for an excellent Charter Day.
This year’s photographic competition again received a large number of entries of high quality, taken either using a camera or smart phone.
The three judges have selected these three photographs both on the criteria of quality of image and interest inherent in the subject matter. The three categories of entry represent each of our traditional crafts and these 2023 winners received prizes of champagne at the Court and Livery Dinner in February.
Don’t forget to sort through your own photographs of things that may have caught your eye in your travels this year. Entries close on 31st December 2024 so still time to take your photographs entries and submit your entries to Court Assistant Ian Wilson ian@ anglianbrickwork.co.uk
Please state category for your entry, what you were photographing and where it was.
Winning entries will be published in next year’s Review and so should preferably be taken at the highest resolution available on your camera or smart phone and submitted as jpg or jpeg files.
CoRE, The Centre Of Roofing Excellence is a training provider for the roofing industry. Our training centre based in Hereford, has been designed and equipped to offer expert development to anyone who requires access to specialist training across the many roofing disciplines.
Courses we offer:
Lead Bossing - Lead Welding - Lead Modules 1 & 2 -
Heritage Roof Slating and Tiling Specialist Applied Skills Programme Level 3 - Lead On Site Assessment
Training - Hard Metals On Site Assessment TrainingRoof Slating and Tiling On Site Assessment - We also offer a variety of short courses .
For further information please contact us:
Info@corehereford.co.uk www.corehereford.co.uk Tel: 01432 345098
Winner – Roof Slating and Tiling Category
Frank Clarke – Dormer sides and valleys on a property in Germany
Judge’s comments “the intricacies of dealing with sweeping features is an art form and excellently executed”
Winner – Brickwork Category
Ian Harmond – Property frontage in Chinon, Loire Valley Judge’s comments “the soft red facing bricks laid to a stretcher bond in natural lime mortar complement the timber framed frontage of this retail unit”
CoRE, The Centre Of Roofing Excellence is a training provider for the roofing industry. Our training centre based in Hereford, has been designed and equipped to offer expert development to anyone who requires access to specialist training across the many roofing disciplines.
Courses we offer:
Lead Bossing - Lead Welding - Lead Modules 1 & 2 -
Heritage Roof Slating and Tiling Specialist Applied Skills Programme Level 3 - Lead On Site Assessment
Training - Hard Metals On Site Assessment TrainingRoof Slating and Tiling On Site Assessment - We also offer a variety of short courses .
For further information please contact us:
Winner – Ceramic Tiling Category
Lesley Day – Ceramic glazed features on building in Leicester Square
Info@corehereford.co.uk
www.corehereford.co.uk Tel: 01432 345098
Judge’s comments “the image of the contemporary glazed faience is very striking and perfectly demonstrates the possibilities of scale using this material. The angle at which the photograph is taken is very dynamic and a good composition”
I became a Freeman of the Company in December 2013 having retired earlier in that year from the role of chief executive officer at The Children Today Charitable Trust, a position I held for just over ten years. My membership of the Tylers and Bricklayers was entirely due to Past Master Lesley Day who, during a very pleasant lunch following my retirement, asked very casually, whether I’d considered becoming a Liveryman.
At that time Lesley was CEO of The Tile Association (TTA). In 2007, at the instigation of its then Chairman, David Forbes, MD of Nicholls & Clarke Limited, The Tile Association had adopted Children Today as its official charity. I am delighted to say their support continues to this day.
Since joining the Company, I have been a member of the Communications Committee, serving for a short time as Press Officer and I have been involved in a number of Company initiatives and reviews. Since 2018 I have been Honorary Secretary and Treasurer of the Company’s Charitable Trusts, a role I have much enjoyed and have just relinquished
after seven years. As Upper Warden I now serve on the Finance, Craft and Nominations Committees. I am also a director of WCTB Events Ltd.
I am Chairman of Trustees at The Sweetpea Charitable Trust, a grant-giving charity supporting disabled children. I am married to Patricia, who is also a trustee of Sweetpea Charity. We have six grandchildren.
In my youth, I attended many other livery company functions and was offered the opportunity of applying for membership, which I did not pursue at the time as I felt these other livery companies did not represent my passion for construction and the crafts.
In 2009 I was introduced to the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers by Past Master Michael Christopher and immediately felt at home; at that point I decided that I would like to join. I became a Liveryman in 2010 and my wife Jann and I were made to feel very welcome by the members, which confirmed I had made the right decision. In 2011 I became a member of the Web Committee and in 2013 was invited to join the Craft Committee, on which I have remained ever since!
In 2019 I was invited to become a Court Assistant, and in 2020 became Chairman of the Craft Committee. I was later appointed as a Trustee of the Craft Trust and went on to be involved in the planning and promoting of our new Craft Bursary Scheme, thus raising the profile of our livery company within our three trades.
Having left school in 1971 I joined Lovell Construction as part of their apprentice and trainee management scheme and attended Wycombe Technical College. After working
my way up the ladder I later left them to gain more experience in the development sector. Over the years I worked for several of the large construction and development companies at a senior level, until forming my own company which I still run on a daily basis. Jann has been my best friend and wife for over 35 years and now in addition to enjoying our skiing, sailing or scuba diving holidays together, we will be enjoying the honour of my serving as this year’s Renter Warden. I will be on the Finance, Membership, Nominations, Treasures and Craft Committees, plus the HMS Magpie Liaison Group, and I remain a Trustee of the Craft Trust.
I joined the Tylers and Bricklayers in 1986 at the suggestion of Leyland Bird, then Father of the Company, and I currently chair the Treasures Committee.
Having read History at Oxford with enjoyable vacation employment as an assistant engineer with Wiltshiers, I became a solicitor with the law firm Withers, the international law firm Freshfields and then at auctioneers Sotheby’s as European General Counsel. I am now Legal Consultant at Bonhams and a consultant lecturer at the Sotheby’s Institute of Art, covering a wide range of issues concerning art and the law. I also sit on the committees of the British Art Market Federation and the Society of Fine Art Auctioneers.
I was Master of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars in 2015/16 and until summer 2024 was chairman of their Charitable Trust. I am married to Katie with two adult children. At home in West Sussex I am a keen gardener and chairman of the Wisborough Green Horticultural Society which organises two flower shows and various other events through the year.
Edward was born and raised in Norfolk, attending the Norwich School then Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, University of London. He holds a Masters in War Studies from Kings College, London. He joined the Company as a Freeman in 2007 and became a Liveryman in 2010. He is also the Chair of the HMS MAGPIE Liaison Group, following the Company’s recent affiliation to the smallest (but perfectly formed!) ship in the Fleet.
Tony’s father came to this country at the age of 16 on his own from Cyprus which had been given independence by the UK.
With a ticket bought by Tony’s grandfather, his father arrived by ship to stay with his uncle, auntie and two cousins. Similarly, Tony’s mother also from Cyprus arrived with her mother, brother and sister to see if they too could make lives for themselves in London. They also took one room in Camden, opposite the house where Tony’s father lived.
The several immigrant families in this street inevitably formed a hard-working community, and it was in this setting that Tony’s mother and father met and a year later married at the age of 17. Their honeymoon was spent in a small room above a chip shop in Southend. And nine months later, Tony was born!
Tony wishes to give this part of his personal story because what transpired in his family is the story of how immigrants contribute to the success story that London represents.
Eventually finding his calling with a “trowel in his hand”, Tony ultimately started Winchmore Brickwork in 1985. He was now worked in the industry for 30 years or so. As a trained and skilled bricklayer, and as an entrepreneur, he sees it as his duty to pay back the good fortune and opportunities he had been afforded and to help others who want to come into the trade. Tony thinks ensuring good bricklaying through the mentoring of trainees, promoting the trade in schools and colleges, and in delivering apprenticeships, is the key to achieving success in this industry. He thanks all in the company for their
Ogden New Court
Colonel (Retired) Ian Ogden was first introduced to the Company when, as the Chief Instructor at the Royal School of
As an Air Traffic Control Officer in the Fleet Air Arm, he has controlled jets and helicopters both ashore and on all three of the old carriers, and helped bring the two new carriers into service. He currently runs a desk in the Ministry of Defence. Outside of the office, he is the Chairman for Olympic Luge in the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association.
His career has been enabled through the unwavering support of his wife, Emma, and his children Olivia and Rupert. When he occasionally manages to escape the needs of the Service, home is in the West Country.
support and the opportunity presented and commits to repay the good fortune God has afforded him.
(To be readmitted in December 2024)
Military Engineering, he was responsible for the engineering, project management and delivery of three Polar Sundials.
These were presented in the Millennium Year on behalf of the Tylers and Bricklayers to the Royal Engineers, E2 Partnerships and to the City of London.
He was made an Honorary Freeman of the Company in 2000, a Liveryman in 2007 and was a Court Assistant between 2017-2023. Since 2014 he has headed up the Company’s Military Liaison Group with specific responsibilities for fostering relationships with the Royal Engineers, Regular, Territorial and Cadets.
Commissioned in 1975 as a Royal Engineer, Ian spent 33 years of military service
worldwide, principally delivering barracks and infrastructure design, construction and consultancy to Operational Theatres worldwide, including Northern Ireland, Falkland Islands, Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2003, as Commanding Officer 63 Commander Royal Engineer (Works) and Deputy Commander British Forces in Afghanistan, he was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service. He has also served in Canada, Germany, Kenya and Bermuda. In 2007 he joined Westfield Europe Ltd as their Design Director, delivering Retail Centric projects, including London, Stratford, Bradford, Croydon and Milan. He retired in 2023.
He is delighted to be re-joining the Court for another term.
December 2023 June 2024 March 2024 September 2024
Kieran Buckley
(Admitted direct to Livery) Kieran is company director of Asgard Home Improvements Ltd having worked his way up from labourer to self-employed multi-trade builder to company director. Kieran comes from Loughton in Essex where he still lives with Louise, his partner. Kieran has five children. When not working Kieran enjoys scuba diving, travel, historical reading and research. He is a member of the Guildable Manor.
Admitted December 2023
Admitted March 2024
Paul, a Cheshire native, is the Managing Director of a thriving bricklaying contracting firm he founded in 2002. With over four decades of experience, his company specializes in partnering with national housebuilders. Paul is a dedicated family man and enjoys golf, walking, and is an active member of the Freemasons. Paul was subsequently clothed in the Livery in September 2024.
Rachel Malpass-Brown
Rachel was born in Keighley and studied maths at St John’s College Oxford. Following an internship at PWC and consultancy roles at PWC, Lane Clark and Peacock and Deloitte, Rachel is now Lead Systems Analyst at the Legal and General. She is a Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. She now lives in Richmond with her partner Alex and son George. When not working Rachel is interested in Code, biking, culture and crafts.
Tony was born in Sheffield and now lives in nearby Todwick with his wife, Sally. They have two daughters. Tony had a long association with the British Army. Originally in the Royal Signals, then Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) as a reservist SNCO and then a commissioned officer. After leaving the army, Tony moved into sales and marketing within the construction industry. He was Commercial Director of ACS Stainless Steel Fixings Ltd and, since 2007, has been Managing Director of Grayson (GB) Ltd. Grayson are the UK’s leading supplier of brickwork sundries and specialist masonry components. When he’s not working, Tony likes to spend time with his family and is learning to play golf.
Robin was born in Burton on Trent and now lives in London with his partner, Ruth. He attended Goldsmiths’ College, University of London and then Sandhurst. Following a successful 10 year career as an officer in the British Army, Robin moved into the financial sector. Since September 2022 he has been a management consultant working for Alpha FMC within their UK asset and wealth management consulting business. Robin enjoys hiking, camping, cycling and woodwork.
Guy Armitage
Guy was born in Harrogate and still lives in Yorkshire with his wife and two children.
On graduation with a degree in Agricultural Economics, Guy spent a few years working in business and IT. In May 2005, Guy joined the family business, York Handmade Bricks, and assumed the role of Managing Director in January 2016.
Today, York Handmade Bricks sells approximately 2.5 million bricks a year. In his spare time, Guy enjoys horse racing, gardening and running.
Lyon (progress from
Danny was born in London and attended the London Nautical School. After studying slating and tiling with City and Guilds, Danny worked as a roofer before setting up his own company Lyons Roofing Solutions Ltd, of which he is now Director.
Danny was awarded Master Craftsman status and became a Craft Freeman of this Company in 2022 and has now progressed to full Freeman.
Danny lives in Kent with his wife Kelly and son Joshua. He enjoys boating and running.
Stuart was born in Portsmouth. After gaining various qualifications in Electrics and Engineering, Stuart undertook a number of roles as a fitter and then a salesman. He moved into group sales and management with Keystone and IG Lintels, then Timloc Building Products and Cupa Pizzaras. He is now South West and Wales Regional Manager for the National Federation of Roofing Contractors. Stuart lives near Sherborne with his wife and two children. He is interested in slate, geology and the built environment, and is a Southampton FC supporter.
Jon was born and schooled in Hertfordshire before attending West Lothian College in Scotland. An eclectic career followed including self-employed plumber and a variety of marketing and management roles in the Music Industry. Jon started Marylebone Interiors Ltd in 2004. 20 years later, the business of which he is owner and director has flourished.
Amongst his many hobbies and interests, Jon is scuba diver, a school governor and an Arsenal supporter.
Rupert was born in Hong Kong and educated in England. Rupert took part in a Land Rover Rally to Post War Bosnia-Herzegovina in 2001 and subsequently became involved with the rebuilding of Post War BosniaHerzegovina – starting a lifelong interest in the country.
He went on to study architecture at university and has worked as an architect since 2005. He joined Holden Harper, now Holden Ford in 2013 and progressed to be the partner of Liveryman Richard Holden , and, with Richard’s retirement, is now Director of Holden Ford.
Rupert lives in Hampshire with his wife and three young children. His hobbies include building and construction (he is restoring his own home in Hampshire) and classic car restoration.
Charles Cooper was appointed a Steward in March prior to the Craft Awards. Peter Lynch was appointed a Steward in October prior to the Installation Service and Lunch. They each received their gowns and have joined the team assisting the Clerk in the smooth administration of events.
On 20 June a small group of Tylers and Bricklayers represented the Company at the Brigantes Breakfast which took place this year in Liverpool, the event returning again to the magnificent St George’s Hall. This was the gathering for Liverymen of the City of London in the North, a convivial annual beanfeast in one of the great northern cities or towns.
Meeting at 10.30am liverymen were first treated to a fascinating presentation on Cunard in the Concert Room, for 175 years a key company and employer in Liverpool’s seafaring history as an international port. After the lecture, we adjourned to a Champagne Reception before taking our seats for the Breakfast.
As well as Aldermanic Sheriff Bronek Masojada representing the Lord Mayor, several current Masters also managed to attend. They processed in to the fanfare of Ilkley Moor Baht ‘at followed by Scipio, played thunderously by Dr Sir Andrew Parmley FRCO, Lord Mayor in 2016/17, on the mighty St George’s Hall organ. Master Pewterer Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC was a most engaging guest speaker, relating tales of her time as a High Court judge and at the Old Bailey. Musical entertainment is a key part of Brigantes events which always seem to stretch to 5pm. We were given the full gamut of Mersey songs ( Beatles, Gerry Marsden, Cilla Black) as well as a memorable performance of ‘My heart will go on’ sung from the organ balcony above us.
Christ’s Hospital Presentee Kiyan Rahman became an Apprentice to the Company at the Installation Court Meeting on 3 October. Watched on by his parents, Nazia and Shafiur, and Sam Bushell, Christ’s Hospital Livery contact, Kiyan signed a fouryear Indenture.
Kiyan’s Apprentice Master is Past Master Lesley Day who promised to “Teach and Instruct, or cause to be taught and instructed the said Apprentice in the traditions, customs and aims of the Worshipful Company; according to the custom of the City of London”. In return, Kiyan will “not waste the goods of his said Master, nor lend them unlawfully to any.”
Kiyan has been a student at Christ’s Hospital School since year 7, and recently achieved
11 GCSE’s with 10 A*s and 1 A grade. Kiyan is now working on A Levels in Computer Science, Maths, Physics and Further Mathematics, and hopes to go on to have a career in Artificial Intelligence.
When Putin invaded Ukraine on 24 February 2022, I felt a real sense of anger and frustration. Yet again historic mistakes would be repeated by engaging in a war in Europe. Here are some brief notes of four visits I have made to Ukraine over the last year.
In June 2023 I contacted 4Ukraine Humanitarian Aid (4UHA) based in Essex. This organisation was established by two amazing people, Karl von Buren and Rob Drumgold. I made my first tour in August 2023 taking a Volvo XC90 with my very good friend Anthony Devlin. We filled the car with defibrillators and other medical equipment before leaving together with Karl driving a Ford Transit similarly full of medical aid, and a motorbike ridden by Nick Tranter to help deliver bloods quickly to the front line. We provided the aid to three groups in Ukraine and the Volvo to an army priest Father Ihor whom I had contacted through the army officer nephew of a Ukrainian friend of mine in Crete.
4UHA provide medical aid to several groups in Ukraine. It also provides food and essential supplies to two small orphanages which run a shop in Ivano-Frankivisk. The shop is unusual, the goods are all free. We were pleased to teach them all to have turkey at Christmas and hope that the tradition lasts.
I returned again in November 2023 to take medical equipment and supplies to the orphanages and the shop. Being back in Ukraine for several days I noticed the considerable fatigue as the war dragged on into a cold winter. With a stalemate in the southern and eastern fronts I was concerned that people seemed more down at heart. It was also clear that losses were mounting. In Ivano-Frankivsk there are rows of boards featuring soldiers who will not be coming home; these are placed with pride, sadness and despair. They were terrible to witness.
Charles Cooper Liveryman and Steward
In March 2024 I returned once again with my colleague Nick Tranter to deliver more medical aid, sadly body bags, and to go on a food shopping spree for the orphanages. We also took a Mercedes M class for the army. I noticed that the people seemed more determined and angrier on this trip.
At the beginning of July 2024, Nick and I made a fourth trip in eleven months in another Mercedes M class SUV. This time we took a very valuable consignment of orthopaedic equipment to a surgeon, Dr Oleksij, who I had met last year. Our usual journey is Harwich to Holland overnight, Dresden, then Lancut in Poland and on the fourth night Lviv having already made some medical supply drops. These are quite exhausting journeys.
In Kyiv this July we were able to meet with a number of groups with whom we work
closely; Ukrainian army contacts and British and US personnel. It was a most interesting time.
Kyiv is a beautiful and vibrant city and we left in good spirits on 7 July. The following day we heard that the children’s hospital in Kyiv had been bombed that night. This left us speechless: It is a terrible truth that the Russian forces knew what they were doing. It occurs to me constantly that in war there are no winners. Young people die, infrastructure is damaged or destroyed, and the economy is reduced to its knees. So many people are injured or lose their lives.
The Ukrainians are the most wonderful, courageous and inspiring people. They are fighting a terrible war for the freedom of all of Europe and they carry our future security upon their brave shoulders. They are enormously grateful for our help and support.
It was, in my opinion, another good year for the Company’s charitable trusts. Despite a challenging economy the level of regular giving has been maintained, a number of Members increased their donations and the Trustees were able to give more in grants to good causes the Company supports.
Charitable giving is one of the foundations on which the Livery in general and the Tylers and Bricklayers in particular are built. There are three charitable trusts and, while the Trustees are appointed by the Court of Assistants, they are entirely separate and independent of the Company. They are the general Charitable Trust, the Craft Trust and the Relief in Need Charity. Each one is separately registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. The three charities have, as their names suggest, different objectives.
The Charitable Trust
The Charitable Trust, as can be seen below, gives grants to a range of good causes. Each year the Trustees meet to determine a number of annually recurring grants and one-off donations. Some grants are given over three years. This rolling programme helps small charities to plan and budget over a longer period which, in turn, can help both their efficiency and effectiveness.
The Relief in Need Charity
This was set up initially to provide pensions to senior Liverymen who find themselves in difficult financial circumstances. More broadly, it exists to relieve Liverymen and Freemen of the Company, their widows, their children, and certain other qualifying persons who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress. All applications are treated as confidential.
The Charitable Trust and Relief in Need Charity share the same three Trustees in Past Masters Tom Rider, Lesley Day and Roger Westbrook CMG.
The Craft Trust
The Craft Trustees also give annually recurring and one-off grants to more specialised craft and heritage related charitable organisations. The Craft Trustees are Past Master David Cole-Adams, Richard Holden, Past Master Jeff Fuller, Renter Warden David White and Chairman of the Craft Committee Ian Wilson.
There are three main sources of income, namely regular or ad-hoc donations from Members; dividends from investments; and Gift Aid.
Grants to charitable causes
At their respective meetings the Trustees
approved the following grants for the year commencing 30 September 2024:
The Charitable Trust annual recurring grants
The Lord Mayor’s Appeal
The Master’s nomination
St Paul’s Cathedral Foundation
The Brunswick Youth Club Trust
The Church of St Margaret Lothbury
The Guildhall School of Music and Drama
Clergy Support Trust
City of London School for Girls – Noreen Dickins prizes
City of London School for Boys – Noreen Dickins prizes
City of London Freemen’s School – Noreen Dickins prizes
City of London Police Widows’ and Orphans’ Fund
St Paul’s Cathedral School (COLET)
St Paul’s Cathedral School – Martin Fund prizes
Royal Engineers Cadets London Area prizes
Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch
Guildhall Library & London Metropolitan Archive
London’s Air Ambulance Charity
The Sheriffs’ and Recorder’s Fund
Royal Engineers Cadets Open Day
Trustees of the United Guilds’ Service
Royal British Legion Garden of Remembrance
HMS Magpie prize (Following the successful presentation to the first winner of the HMS Magpie prize, the Trustees approved its inclusion in the list of annual recurring grants)
The Worshipful Company of Hackney
Carriage Drivers Children’s Magical Taxi Tour
(a new annual recurring grant)
The Charitable Trust annual Grants
The Trustees approved the following four charities to receive funding on an annual basis for each of the next three years:
Side by Side
Twilight Kindness
REACT
Tikva Hope
The Trustees approved the second of a threeyear grant to:
Inspire a Teen
London Hearts
Resolve Now
British Red Cross Society
Alan Dodd Upper Warden
The Trustees approved the third of a threeyear grant to:
BEDE
No Going Back
London City Farms
Respite Association
The Apprentice Bursary Scheme. Trustees resolved to support the Apprentice Bursaries in 2024-2025.
25th Anniversary of affiliation to Royal Engineers. The Trustees approved, in principle, joint funding for items to commemorate the 25th Anniversary.
The Craft Trust grants to charitable causes
The Trustees approved the following grants for the year commencing 30 September 2024
Ironbridge Gorge Museum (Jackfield Tile Museum)
King’s Foundation (apprentice craft training towards Master Craftsman)
Weald and Downland Open Air Museum
Bursledon Brickworks Museum
Building Crafts College (Bricklaying)
St Edmunds Society Student Prize
YouthBuild UK
The trustees approved the following one-off donations:
St Mungo’s – Bricks & Mortar Project
London School of Architecture – Holy Trinity Church, heritage brick restoration project
Trelissick House (NT) – Walled Garden heritage brick restoration project
Build-Up Foundation – Community improvement and training
The position of Honorary Secretary and Treasurer to the Charitable Trusts is one that I have been privileged to hold since 2018. Having become Upper Warden, I have now retired from that role and have handed over to Court Assistant Martin Reading. I take this opportunity to wish Martin every success and to extend my thanks to the Trustees and also to everyone who has supported the Charitable Trusts. Thank you.
For more information about any aspect of charitable giving or if you have any questions, please contact Court Assistant Martin Reading, the new Honorary Secretary and Treasurer to the Charitable Trusts.
charities@tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
23 golfers travelled to Burnham Beeches Golf Club on 10 September for a day of sunshine, golf and good food.
The golfers consisted of Tylers and Bricklayers and their guests. We were also joined by the Paviors, the Information Technologists and the Plumbers. The date was chosen when the weather was cooler but thankfully on the day we were blessed with glorious sunshine.
After checking in and a breakfast of bacon rolls and coffee, the tee times started at 10.36am made up of 3 ball teams with men off the yellow tees and ladies from the red tees. We had a nearest the pin competition on the 10th and the longest drive on the 18th
Pienaar Liveryman and Golf Captain
We played for the Tylers and Bricklayers‘ Paul Harris Trophy as individuals and as a team for the 3 clerks’ trophy.
After the round, we had a lovely meal of sausage and mash and a dessert of fruit crumble. We were also joined by three guests for dinner.
Ian Wilson winning the Paul Harris Trophy The Plumbers team winning the “Three Clerks Trophy”
Along with the main prizes the nearest the pin was won by Malcolm Wright. The longest drive won by Sam Hayward. The Master who doesn’t play golf kindly agreed to present the prizes for us. This was his first time visiting a golf course in England.
Martin Reading Court Assistant and Silver Steward
The Master with a few hardened Tylers and Bricklayers (some ably assisted by their wonderful wives) gathered on 11 September in the depths of Carpenters’ Hall to help clean our wonderful collection of silver.
We all had a fantastic day and I would like to thank Simon Martin for assisting in the organisation. The team at Burnham Beeches were very welcoming towards the golf day participants and the location was good. Although after using this course for a couple of years, we may change it next year. Charlotte and Simon will source other options and ask the Tylers and Bricklayers Golfers their thoughts.
As you can see from the photo it was a hive of activity – marigold gloves, pink polishing mitts, silver cleaning products and a load of elbow grease made our silver gleam and shine. The fruits of our labour were seen at our Installation Luncheon on 3 October 2024.
Amazing how we can go from this organised chaos to a scene of decorum and formality.
Following our hard work we gathered in a local eatery for some sustenance and a few glasses of grape juice – it was a jolly affair and the silver didn’t get a further mention once.
Ninety years ago it was decided that the importance of the historic craft of bricklaying should be promoted by the recognition by the Company of the best of brickwork in the inner London area. Recognition took the form of the award of medals – gold to the architect and silver to the foreman bricklayer.
The first of these were awarded in 1935 with the Gold going to Sir Giles Gilbert Scott RA, OM, FRIBA for Battersea Power Station, with the first Silver Medal awarded to Francis Clark. Awards were made annually up to the outbreak of the Second World War and were re-introduced in 1953.
It was not long (1956) before it was decided to make the awards Triennial and to extend the area of cover to that prescribed in the original Ordnances over which the Company held authority – ten miles from Charing Cross. An exceptional award (taking the form of a Bar to his previous Gold Medal) was made in 1961 to the Master, Sir Edward Maufe RA RIBA, for his distinguished work on the design of the brick-built Guildford Cathedral. Six years later it was further agreed that the deliberations should include awards to cover the crafts of Floor and Wall Tiling and Roof Tiling and Slating. In 1986, it was established that the geographical limits for the Triennial Awards should be extended to that area confined by the recently completed M25 Orbital Motorway – a rather larger area. It remains so to this day.
A comprehensive listing of the award winners up to 2014 is included in The History of The Tylers and Bricklayers’ Company – THEY BUILT LONDON – with an update for the subsequent awards included in the Company website. It would be an interesting exercise to establish how many of the award winners are still gracing our city.
The final judging of this year’s awards was carried out by judges drawn from the Craft Committee, chaired by Hilary Satchwell – a very distinguished figure in the world of planning and urban design. The Triennial Awards presentation took place on Tuesday 5 September at Vintners’ Hall. Hilary, an experienced judge of architectural and bricklaying competitions, stressed in her speech that, “as these awards were held only every three years they allowed us to pause and reflect on the significant events, changes and challenges our industry has faced over the past few years.. and to consider their impact over a longer period – something that is often overlooked in a world that moves at such a fast pace”. She emphasised how crucial the skills of the craftsmen working in our sector are to our city and its inhabitants. The experience and expertise required for craftsmen to excel in our trades is important to the fabric of London as a whole.
“Good design and workmanship contribute not only to the functionality of our building but also to the aesthetic, depth and emotional resonance they have with those who live and work in them” Hilary Satchwell
The award citations were read out by the Chairman of the Craft Committee, Ian Wilson (who had master-minded the whole process), and the presentations were made by the Right Honourable Lord Mayor Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli. The awards went to the winners in the three categories (to Borough Yards, Storey Street SE1 for Brickwork; to Lucent in London W1 for Roof Tiling and Slating; and to The Colonade, College Road, Croydon for Wall and Floor Tiling). A special award was given to Department Store Studios, 19 Bellefield
Road SW9 for Sustainability, with a Special Commendation going to The East India Club in St James Square, SW1
The presentation was followed by a drinks reception and a lunch in the livery hall – a space distinguished by the inscription above the entrance door adjacent the top table noting that: ‘Alderman Sir Henry Pickard (Lord) Mayor in 1356 and Master of this Company in 1363 entertained 5 kings: Edward III – King of England; David – King of Scotland; John – King of France; Waldemar III – King of Denmark; Peter – King of Cyprus’ After an excellent meal accompanied by a fine selection of the Company’s wines, the Master set out a general history of the Triennial awards and then proposed a toast to our Guests.
Prime among these were the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, and Hilary Satchwell the Chairman of the Awards Judging Panel. The Lord Mayor did the Company proud in his response to the toast.
In an elegant and witty speech he echoed the remarks made by the chairman of the judges, expressing his enthusiasm for the standards achieved and his gratitude that the Tylers and Bricklayers did so much to support the improvement of the built environment, not just of the City, but also Greater London. The Master brought the proceedings to a close with thanks to all who had made it the occasion it had been; including the Craft Committee, the Award sponsors, the caterers and, most importantly, the Learned Clerk.
Full details of the premiated schemes and the sponsors are recorded in a handsome brochure and is available on the Company website.
Members of the Tylers and Bricklayers will hopefully already be aware that the City of London is divided into 25 electoral wards. There are 100 Common Councillors elected every four years to serve as members representing public interest in the City and informing how the City of London Corporation carries out its various civic duties and activities.
The next full City-wide Ward elections are due to take place in March 2025. Between two and ten Common Councillors will be elected to represent each of the City Corporation’s Wards, the number linked to the relative size of each Ward electorate.
Common Councillors
Also known as “Commoners”, they are elected to serve on the City Corporation’s committees. Their role is to discuss and make decisions on the day-to-day activities and projects of the City of London. Each councillor has an opportunity to serve on a number of committees made up of representatives from each of the wards. These are known as Ward Committees and they have broad responsibilities, including oversight of the City Corporation’s finances, planning & transportation, community & children’s services, port health & environmental services; and culture, heritage and libraries responsibilities. With Councillors covering a wide range of professions and specific City interests, they agree among themselves who will serve on what committees, or they may be elected to them.
Aldermen
Working alongside the elected Common Councillors for each Ward is an Alderman. He or she has jurisdiction over the Ward – for centuries each Ward has elected one Alderman. (Note here that the term Alderwoman has recently come into use in the City but not all female Aldermen choose to use the term – it is left as a matter of personal choice) On this basis the 25 Aldermen and 100 Common Councilmen together progress the work of the City Corporation and the delivery of a diverse range of services to residents, City workers and visitors.
Unlike Common Councilmen, Aldermen serve for six years rather than four and there is no single date on which Aldermen across the City are elected. They are elected as and when their individual terms of office expire.
The Aldermen are members of the Court of Aldermen, from which future aldermanic Sheriffs and Lord Mayors of the City of London are selected. While the Court of
Aldermen is focused on the progression to, and support for, the Mayoralty, they also importantly oversee the granting of the Freedom of the City, creation of new Guilds, Companies without Livery and Livery Companies and maintain the historic link to the Livery.
Aldermen also serve on Common Council committees, act as governors and trustees of a variety of schools, hospitals, charitable foundations and trusts with ancient City connections.
The work of the City Corporation is overseen and debated by the Court of Common Council (comprising of Common Councillors and Aldermen) with key decisions taken by that body. In addition, there are also a number of key committees whose membership is elected by the Court. The work of these is wide-ranging and includes, for example, the City Corporation’s police authority work, policy and resources, the running of the Barbican Centre, and the City’s open spaces.
In terms of the political composition, it should be noted that councillors in the City are not by tradition elected on a party basis to the Court of Common Council, so their political status is therefore listed as Independent.
The Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee is a senior member of the Court of Common Council and is a member of the Leaders’ Committee of London Councils, which comprises the lead councillors from across the London Boroughs. The main difference from standard local authority governance is that the City Corporation’s decision making is based on its committee structure, rather than a cabinet system whereby the Leader of a Council and Executive Members are the principal decision-makers.
Both Aldermen and Common Councillors are elected by the voters of a ward who must be pre-registered to vote by being on the Ward list. Registration is currently occurring from the end of August until 16 December after a canvass was sent to all residents and businesses in the City. Ward lists will be published after closure of annual registration and will show who is able to vote in the Ward elections in March 2025.
Each Ward is required to hold an annual Wardmote for its Ward List voters, and the City of London Wardmote Book provides a useful guide to the procedure to be followed
David Williams Editor
at Ward elections, from the registration of voters and the qualification of candidates, to the conduct of the election itself.
Each ward has one or two Deputies, depending on the size of the ward. Common Councillors are appointed as Deputy at the Wardmote by the Alderman for their ward. Their role is to deputise for the Alderman.
The electorate
The City of London has a very unique demography with a relatively low residential population but an estimated daily working population in excess of 500,000. This is reflected in its electorate needing to comprise both residents and businesses in the City – the number of workers today significantly outnumbers the residents. To be truly representative of its population, the City also offers votes to organisations and businesses within its boundaries so they can also have their say on the way the City is run.
Residential Voters:
Those living in the City simply register directly with the City during the canvass period. A canvass is sent to every address within the 25 Wards.
Business Voters:
A small business proprietor in the City can confidently expect to have a vote by completing the canvass. However larger City businesses have a person nominated who in turn names those selected to vote within their organisation. By law those named are expected to reflect diversity and represent all levels of the organisation, not just listing senior partners or directors. The number of voters allowed by a larger City organisation is determined by a simple table and is considerably less than the number of employees. eg: A firm with 50 employees will have 10 voters, and every additional 50 members of staff will only entitle it to appoint one extra voter. Hence the largest City organisations cannot unduly dominate the list of voters. However, worker votes do slightly dominate over residential – with a total electorate of around 18,000, only 8000 or so represent residential voters.
Large businesses based in the City are in a strong position to put up and support candidates for election to Common Council. However, despite selecting and naming its voters, an organisation does not get the assurance of making a “business vote” in support of a chosen candidate – by law it remains a secret individual ballot by post or at a polling station by each of its appointed voters.
14 January 1933 – 14 September 2024
Past Master and Father of the Company
Peter Fuller passed away in hospital in September. Although his last few days were frustrating, he retained his good humour and charm to the last, knowing his nurses by name and enquiring about their backgrounds and interests. He was delighted to find that one of his physiotherapists was the daughter of a former Leyton Orient manager and player, and that one of his junior doctors was an Old Forester – two key parts of Peter’s life.
Sadly, this obituary appears alongside that of his brother and readers will note the similarities between the brothers who were very close.
Peter was the first son of Past Master Edward (‘Jack’) and Marjorie Fuller. Educated at Daiglen and then Forest School. Peter enjoyed his time at the school and in addition to forming his lifelong enjoyment of the dramatic arts he enjoyed and excelled at history. He continued to act for much of his adult life primarily with the Woodford
Wells Amateur Dramatics Society and the Wanstead Players.
Peter joined the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers in 1954 and served as Master in 1981-82. Peter also served on the Craft Committee and was a Craft and Charitable Trustee as well as serving on the Wine Committee for many years, a role he perhaps enjoyed more than the other committees. That said, he was a passionate advocate of the building industry and in particular the crafts of tiling and bricklaying.
After completing his National Service on the Isle of Wight, where he made several lifelong friends, Peter was apprenticed as a carpenter to Dove and Brothers Builders in Islington, a company with many connections to the Tylers and Bricklayers. After completing his apprenticeship he joined the family business of Fullers Builders Ltd in 1955 where he worked for many years alongside his cousin Past Master Hugh Fuller. Like their respective fathers they complemented one another well and enjoyed many successful
years together until Peter retired early at the age of 60, worried that he would follow the fate of his father and grandfather who both died before retirement age.
In his retirement Peter read many historical books and greatly enjoyed a number of quiz shows such as The Chase, Countdown and Fifteen to One which he appeared in, as well as starring with his son Jeff in Today’s the Day winning their series and finishing runnersup in the Champion’s League final. He also challenged himself with the daily sudoku and The Times crossword.
Sport was a key part of Peter’s life being a regular supporter of Leyton Orient since his schooldays and holding a season ticket for many years. Peter also served as President of the Woodford Wells Club between 1994 and 1997 and as President of the Old Foresters Club. He was also part of the Old Forester’s Racing Partnership and had the wonderful experience of winning the Stayers Hurdle Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival in 1999 when Anzum won at 50-1. Peter was also a member of the MCC and a keen fan of Essex Cricket apparently organising a box for the Ts&Bs for the 1965 test against South Africa.
Peter married Patricia in 1959 and they moved to Loughton in Essex. Peter and Pat lived in the same house all their married life backing onto Epping Forest where they enjoyed walking – a pastime that would see them complete numerous longer walks such as the Harlowcamlow Way, the Essex Way and the London Loop to name but a few.
Peter is survived by Pat and their two children Paul and Past Master Jeff, five grandchildren (including Liveryman Jack) and five great grandchildren.
27 May 1935 – 8 March 2024
David Fuller passed away at home in March after a long illness which he bore with his customary charm, good humour and generosity, insisting that all his visitors be offered cake and champagne.
David was the second son of Past Master Edward (‘Jack’) and Marjorie Fuller. Educated at Daiglen and then Forest School, David quickly formed a lifelong enjoyment of the dramatic arts. Both he and his brother, Past Master Peter Fuller, had the dubious distinction of playing Mistress Quickly in the school’s annual Shakespeare play – Peter in Henry IV Part I in 1946 and David in The Merry Wives of Windsor in 1950. Indeed during David’s bachelor years he would travel down from London to appear alongside his brother with the Woodford Wells Amateur Dramatics Society and the Wanstead Players.
David joined the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers in 1958 and served as Master in 1988-9, becoming the fifth member of the Fuller family to do so. Although not involved directly in the construction industry he was a passionate advocate of the crafts. A particular interest was the development and training of young people in the industry, regularly supporting, and on occasion presenting, the E&R Fuller Award.
David began his working life in marine insurance but after several years decided the City was not for him and embarked upon a career in fine art joining Ackermann’s Gallery in Bond Street in 1958. Here he developed a reputation as one of the foremost experts on British sporting art and especially equine art. David remained with Ackermann’s until the business was acquired in 1992, at which time his wife Sandy memorably drove him up in their horsebox to Bond Street to secure his collection and other belongings.
Following his time with Ackermann’s David represented many private clients both in the UK and abroad. Through his connections in the art world, David also enabled the Tylers and Bricklayers’ Company to acquire several items to add to its collection including a London stoneware mug dated 1722, embossed with the Company’s arms. Likewise, a Staffordshire pearlware jug of circa 1815 and an early-eighteenth-century oil painting depicting bricklayers.
As his family will testify, he built up a huge collection of books and catalogues in his study and surrounding barns. He also shared his father’s love of early cinema owning a number of ‘pre-talkie’ releases. Christmas was often spent watching Charlie Chaplin’s
The Prisoner and Steamboat Willy, occasionally upside down or at a strange angle! David also discovered some lost episodes of Dad’s Army in his father’s collection believed to have been recovered from a skip in White City.
David married Sandy in 1969 and shortly afterwards the family moved to Dunmow
in which area David and Sandy remained, enjoying life in the beautiful Essex countryside around them when the demands of the Pony Club permitted.
David is survived by Sandy and their two children Julian, a Freeman of the Company, and Katharine, and three grandchildren Jemima, Cosmo and Bertie.
Editor’s Note: Members are also referred to an article on the Fuller and Stokes families which appeared in Issue 31 October 2020, written by Past Master Peter Fuller..
12 May 1938 – 25 January 2024
A memorial service took place at County Hall on 20 May attended by the Master and many others, when friends and colleagues paid generous tribute to Geoff who had sadly died in January at the age of 85.
Geoff studied architecture at Liverpool University, and was a senior partner at RHWL from 1980 until 2013, two years before the firm was bought by Aedas. He worked on a number of substantial City and West End buildings. His affable style combined with architectural skills made design and planning applications a lot of fun for both planners and clients. He was widely regarded as an imaginative and accomplished architect. He was famously behind a proposed 33-storey tower shaped like a sail for shipping company P&O in Waterloo, that was ultimately blocked by then London mayor Ken Livingstone in 2004.
A larger than life character and an enthusiastic Coventry City “Sky Blues” supporter, he provided the Supporters Club with an open top bus to get his friends down to Wembley in 1987. He famously anticipated City winning the FA Cup by
acquiring himself a Sky Blue and White striped suit made in Savile Row out of leftover material from the teams’ strip. He wore it at the FA final and on suitable occasions thereafter. Not just a fan, he was an associate director and board member of the Club. His professional architectural projects included the club’s Arena 2001 stadium, now known as the Coventry Building Society Arena.
He was also deeply involved with the 2011 revamp of the Grade I-listed St Pancras Hotel. He was widely regarded as a skilled architect.
Geoff was full of fun and surprises. He was a keen bus spotter for instance, and owned a share in a classic Routemaster bus. But it was his acquisition of a railway station, and its conversion into a six bedroom home that really set Geoff apart from the run of the mill enthusiast. His purchase of Saughtree Station in the south of Scotland was certainly a train fanatic fulfilling his dream. The property was derelict and without electricity when he bought it. Built in 1867 the station was closed for use in the 1950’s. The state of the property did not deter Geoff and his wife. Obsessed with trains since childhood and an avid trainspotter, this led to him deciding he needed to run a full size railway in his front garden, So not only did they make the house habitable but he then set about relaying a third of a mile of rail tracks using friends to provide the labour. “What use are tracks without a train” was then Geoff’s view
David Williams Court Assistant
so he acquired a working 1950’s train – both engine and carriages – to sit on the tracks. Geoff was a one-off in every sense and much conversation with Ts&Bs in the pub after events would be about his giant train set.
Geoff was also a very competent pianist, happy to lead a Cockney sing-along on a pub honky tonk piano. He was also a man whose command of language to those he knew closely was quite colourful. “He managed to use “F” and “C” in a way the English dictionary had never contemplated, but nobody really minded and laughed” – a reminiscence from a friend. His personality and style was loved and admired by everyone.’
When he retired at about 80, he started to study high-level mathematics at night school, becoming quite an accomplished mathematician. Wren, a mathematician turned architect would have approved! Perhaps this love of numbers linked back to his bus and train spotting addiction.
In the Tylers and Bricklayers, Geoff loved his role as a Steward. He would famously always want to position himself at the door of each venue, often even acting as taxi door opener. His smiling face greeted everyone and he was a terrific part of the Stewards’ team and is greatly missed.
Watch in action on youtube! https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=5LrO7Z2ro34
https://search.savills.com/property-detail/ gbedrseds220228
7 Oct 1942 – 29 March 2024
While serving as our Chaplain, the then Venerable George Cassidy was Archdeacon of London and Canon Residentiary at St Paul’s Cathedral, a role he held for 12 years. He held responsibility for the fabric and finances of St Paul’s and the historic churches of the City of London.
An Ulsterman, George worked in Kenya for two years before training at Oak Hill Theological College. He was ordained in 1972 and served incumbencies in Bristol and London before taking up his post at St Paul’s in 1987. He was soon clothed as a Liveryman and appointed Chaplain of the Tylers and Bricklayers in 1988. George was also a liveryman in the Founders’ Company and active in City life.
He was a member of General Synod from 1995 and was consecrated in 1999, necessarily resigning as our Chaplain to serve the next ten years as diocesan bishop for Southwell and Nottingham. George touched the lives of many through his kind and wise
leadership. He inspired and encouraged many to enter into ordained and lay ministries, giving tremendous support and confidence to people to take on new and fruitful roles in the church, diocese and wider society. George was someone of tireless energy and vision for gospel ministry, who loved meeting and connecting with people in the Lord’s work; he also had a skilful eye for the value and importance of good organisation in enabling mission.
He was an active and vocal participant in the House of Lords until retiring in 2009. However, he continued to be very active in ministry following retirement, especially in the Diocese of Bath & Wells. He and his wife Jane lived in the village of Stogursey close to the beautiful Quantock Hills. They have two daughters.
A Service of Thanksgiving took place on Tuesday 16 April in Taunton attended by the Master.
At the Court meeting in December 2023 we granted the status of Honorary Liveryman to our long-serving Beadle, David Wylie. David decided to retire from beadling for the Ts&Bs and at the Supper following the Carol Service the Master was able to thank David for all his hard work and enthusiasm since 2009. David was presented with a decanter and glasses on behalf of the Company. We look forward to seeing him at our events in the future as a liveryman.
The Review is the annual Upper Warden’s newsletter published by the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers and distributed to all members each October with the new Company List.
Articles
Suggestions for interesting articles about the activities of our members, the trades and industry we represent, the Livery and the City are welcome. Please discuss future content ideas with the Upper Warden first.
Advertising and Sponsorship
The Review accepts full page, half page and quarter-page advertisements. We can also consider offers of sponsorship from members wishing to support the publication of the Review.
Contact the Upper Warden on
Thursday 24 October Visit to Leighton House Museum
Friday 8 November The Silent Ceremony, Guildhall
Saturday 9 November
The Lord Mayor’s Show Optional lunch venue TBC
Thursday 12 December Court Meeting, Armourers’ Hall
Carol Service, St Margaret Lothbury Buffet Supper, Armourers‘ Hall
2025
Monday 27 January Common Hall Zoom Meeting
Thursday 6 February Court and Livery Dinner, Cutlers’ Hall
Tuesday 4 March Livery Pancake Races Guildhall Yard
Thursday 13 March Court Meeting Craft Awards Luncheon, Goldsmiths’ Hall
Friday 28 March United Guilds Service, St Paul’s Cathedral Optional lunch venue TBC
Wednesday 2 April The Treloar’s Gala Dinner, Mansion House (Treloar’s fundraiser – not T&B event)
Thursday 10 April Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch, Guildhall (Armed Forces charitable fundraiser)
18 – 21 April Easter
Tuesday 13 May Festival Service of the Clergy Support Trust, St Paul’s Cathedral
Thursday 15 May Annual Livery Banquet, Painters’ Hall
Friday 6 June –Sunday 8 June The Lord Mayor’s Livery Weekend for Masters, Prime Wardens and Upper Bailiff, Scotland
Thursday 12 June Court Meeting Masters and Clerks’ Lunch, Ironmongers’ Hall
Tuesday 24 June Common Hall Election of Sheriffs Guildhall Optional lunch venue TBC
Tuesday 1 July –Thursday 3 July Master’s Visit to Norwich
Thursday 24 July Brigantes Breakfast, Scarborough (Not T&B event but open to all Liverymen)
Saturday 2 August Charter Day Visit to Weald and Downland Museum
September TBC Tylers and Bricklayers’ Golf Day
Thursday 4 September Court Meeting Court and Livery Guest Dinner Apothecaries’ Hall
Monday 29 September Common Hall Election of the Lord Mayor Guildhall Optional lunch venue TBC
Thursday 2 October Court Meeting, Carpenters’ Hall Installation and Service, St Margaret Lothbury Luncheon, Carpenters’ Hall
This list gives the basic details of functions currently planned for the coming year – please note the dates. Full information on these and any further events will be sent by the Clerk in good time to allow for bookings to be made.
Master Tyler and Bricklayer
Jennifer Rolls
E: master@tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
Upper Warden
Alan Dodd
E: upperwarden@tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
Renter Warden
David White
E: renterwarden@tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
Deputy Master (Immediate Past Master)
Christopher Causer
E: c123causer@gmail.com
Deputy Master
Professor John Schofield
E: j8sxx@hotmail.com
Clerk
Heather Smith
E: clerk@tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
Follow us @Ts_and_Bs
The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers
The Clerk 25 Glenferrie Road St Albans AL1 4JT
T: 07749 163430
E: clerk@tylersandbricklayers.co.uk www.tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
The Review is published annually by the Upper Warden on behalf of the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers
Editor: David Williams
E: Davidwilliams31266@gmail.com
Photographer: Marcus Jamieson-Pond www.jampondphotography.com
Design and Print:
T: 01522 529591
E: sales@ruddocks.co.uk www.ruddocks.co.uk
