"On one hand, I’m glad this lunch follows after - and not before - my 215 metre abseil down the The Cheesegrater in aid of the Lord Mayor’s Appeal this morning," said Lady Mayores, Florence King to Liverymen and guests at our Ladies' Court Lunch at Butchers' Hall on Friday 4th July.
It gives an insight to someone who embraces a challenge and is not afraid to jump into (or off) something.
As is tradition, the Lady Mayoress was the guest of honour at a lunch to celebrate the women within and connected to our Livery.
She admitted to not writing the script and that she may well add a few nuggets of her own. Fiona's whit and charm captivated those in attendance as she paid tribute to the Butchers' Company as the embodiment of the Livery mantra to focus on "commerce, community and charity."
She said: "Commerce through your steadfast support for the meat industry.. .be it thanks to the apprenticeship schemes you sponsor or the wider development of butchery skills you promote...
"Community via your role as a stalwart of our City’s long and proud traditions, like the Boar’s Head Ceremony...
"And charity through your incredible philanthropic endeavours, including for Teach First and Farms for City Children."
Good weather, good food and fellowship
The mood matched the weather and it was a wonderful afternoon of fellowship.
Guests were welcomed and proposed by Liveryman Lucinda Baker. Other principle guests of the Company included Ms Rosali Pretorius, Consort to Alderman & Sheriff, Liveryman Gregory Jones KC, Mr Jeff Kelly JP, The Master of the Worshipful Company Of Musicians, companion members Mrs Derby Franks and Mrs Liz Alexander, as well as Mr PB Jacobese, managing director, and Ms Laraine Beament, chief operating officer, of Rhubarb Hospitality.
It was really nice to also see Nick Franks and his wife, Sharmila, who joined companion member, Derby Franks as the Company acknowledged the family as the latest donor to The Brewster Board, in memory of Past Master, David Franks.
Lunch was first class with the British racks of lamb kindly donated by Liveryman, Jim Gaffney.
Liveryman John Bausor generously donated a case of Champage for the raffle which was won by Emma White.
The draw for the 200 Club lottery saw Mike Attwood scoop first prize with Paul Kelly and Andrew Ball coming second and third respectively.