On Wednesday 20th, the Clerk and I attended the Lord Mayors’ briefing at Mansion House – in black tie, which was slightly incongruous, but we were going on to dine with the Basketmakers at Skinners’ Hall afterwards.

The Lord Mayor concentrated on telling us about the four charities that make up her Appeal for this year: Beating Bowel Cancer, Princess Alice Hospice, Raleigh International and Working Chance. She was introduced by Nigel Pullman who also managed the question and answer session.

About four Masters took advantage of the opportunity – I was keen to learn her reaction to the open letter from PETA asking her not to allow a sheep drive during her year.  We bumped into the Master Joiner and Ceiler, Tony Bown who invited us for a drink at the Walbrook Club, along with the Master Plaisterer, De Bradshaw.  It was very cosy in the bar, and we had a quiet drink whilst Tony changed into black tie, and then Gill and I and Tony went on to the Basketmakers for dinner whilst De went to Cutlers Hall for dinner.

It was a very pleasant evening, the Master Cordwainer was the principal guest, and the Master Basketmaker spoke very well to introduce and thank him.

Bill Clark – Master, Woolmen’s Company