Installation Court and Dinner

We held our Installation Dinner at Drapers' Hall on October 6, where two hundred members and their guests spent an enjoyable evening of fellowship, celebration and fine dining. Our guest of honour and principal speaker was Sir David Clementi who was accompanied by his wife, Lady Sally. We were there to celebrate the admission of the new Master, Jason Van Praagh, who takes over from John Bennett MBE.

At a Court meeting just prior to the dinner, the new Wardens for 2022-23 had been admitted:

Angela Knight CBE: Senior Warden
Nick Garnish: Middle Warden
Tim Skeet: Junior Warden

The Master's admission ceremony took place at the end of the dinner, at which point he addressed the audience with his plans and hopes for his year ahead. The incoming Master then awarded the Honorary Freedom of the Company to our Clerk Nicholas Westgarth, who retires next month after almost ten years of working with us. He also welcomed Carole Seawert who will take over as Clerk from Nicholas.

We wish the Master and Wardens every success in their new roles as well as a happy retirement to Nicholas.