Worshipful Company of
Tylers and Bricklayers C har tere d
in
1568
NEWSLETTER ISSUE 28 | SEPTEMBER 2017
MASTER PIECE This 2016/17 Master’s year falls between two anniversary years for the Company, but has certainly not presented any lull in our activities or indeed those of the Master. On reflection, there is probably little that can be done to prepare adequately for the Master’s year. Although there is the occasional short period for one to ‘catch a breath’, it is pretty much full on. Whilst the support of our Clerk is fundamental to a successful year, the ability to manage and control a diary with numerous invitations is also extremely important.
Residing in rural Somerset all adds to the challenges, with the need to arrange travel and accommodation. Nonetheless, it is proving to be a wonderful experience, providing many opportunities that would not otherwise exist. The livery companies are at the very heart of the City of London, both in terms of their support for the Lord Mayor and the City Corporation and in their charitable giving. Whilst not a wealthy company, I like to think that we ‘do our bit’. The tradition and ceremony of the livery companies is all too obvious, but the work behind the scenes is powerful and relevant. As an example, the Livery as a movement will be donating circa £100k to the Grenfell Tower appeal. Where the T&Bs are able to make a difference is in the support of our three crafts. Recognising talented young craftsmen on an annual basis is valued by the industry. This was a year in which we also took the opportunity to make our triennial awards, which are given to the designers of specific buildings within the M25 that demonstrate our crafts at their very best. Having visited a number of the nominated buildings, I was extremely impressed with the results. Of course, it could be assumed that these examples are difficult to view, but there is one that is viewed by commuters at close quarters every day – the mosaics at Tottenham Court Road tube station. Well worth a visit! Whilst there is a connection with all of the other Masters during the year, we have a particularly strong connection with the construction trade livery companies. The Carpenters, Plaisterers, Plumbers, Paviors, Masons and Builders Merchants to name but a few have very similar goals to ourselves and are each active in supporting their crafts. This is evidenced at SkillBuild every year, and in this particular year at the Heritage Craft event in Lincoln Cathedral. Unfortunately, this event, covered in this newsletter, clashed in timing with the Master’s overseas trip, but Liveryman Bob Howard did a sterling job in coordinating our activities, which were very well received. The year can produce some interesting contrasts, which clearly demonstrate the breadth of our connections. www.tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
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