Fun at the Ladle Dinner
A packed Cutlers’ Hall enjoyed a fun evening, hosted by Senior Steward Damon Reynolds (and the other Stewards) in post for the last time before handing over to new Senior Steward Malvern Tipping, all in aid of thanking and honouring Immediate Past Master Nick Jones for his time in office during the past year.
The Women in the Livery group (WIL) had a get-together before dinner, and an entertaining private tour of the Hall led by Beadle David Hasler:
We spotted this Past Master’s Badge in their medals collection:
Points also to Senior Court Assistant Sandra Raine for noting that Alderman Sir Thomas Strong was also Master in in 1909, 1910,1911, and 1912. Phew! He was Lord Mayor in 1910-11.
The procession into dinner included all the Stewards, which is part of the tradition of the Ladle Dinner, with many sitting at the top table with the Company Officers, and the soup course served by the Master, Paul Nash:
After dinner, in another tradition, we saw a huge number [did anyone keep count?] of Past Masters line up to be announced by the Clerk and re-gifted with their ladles by Senior Steward Damon Reynolds.
Lastly, Past Master Nick Gale regaled us [sorry Nick] with his speech about our Immediate Past Master, Chartered Accountant, Nick Jones, and Nick in turn thanked out-going Senior Steward Damon Reynolds for his seven-year stint as a Steward! Thankfully, Damon is going nowhere as he was elected a Court Assistant last month.
The length of service of the Stewards has now changed so that they serve initially for three years and then either stand-down or continue on to become Senior Steward. We are also increasing the number of Stewards to better share out the duties.
If you’re interested in finding out more, or applying, please contact the Clerk for more details. It’s fun and a great way of discovering more about your Company. [Hear hear!]