Court Luncheon

The Court and Livery Luncheon was held on 4 July 2018 on board HQS Wellington, which is moored on the River Thames alongside the Victoria Embankment.  For those who are not familiar with this vessel, whilst it was previously HMS Wellington, had become HMS President, the home of the Royal Naval Reserve.  It is now the headquarters of the Worshipful Company of Master Mariners, having been renamed HQS Wellington on decommissioning as a Royal Naval Vessel when HMS President, the new HQ of the Royal Naval Reserve, was constructed as a shore establishment near St Katherine’s Dock.

It being American Independence Day it was entirely appropriate that the only American present, Steve Lawrence, the husband of Past Master Vicky Russell, was sporting a magnificent tie, based (albeit flamboyantly) on the US flag.

Our court lunch followed the July court meeting, which was also held on board HQS Wellington, and was preceded by a sparkling wine reception on the quarter deck, which, given the wonderful weather, afforded all a splendid view of the River Thames at its best.  We were delighted to welcome Nick Arkell, the Master Vintner; Nick Dunbreck, the Master Actuary; Alderman John Garbutt, the Master Weaver; Alderman Prof Michael Mainelli, the Master World Trader; David Pantlin, the Deputy Master Launderer and John Poulton, the Master Glass Seller as our official guests at this now important annual summer event in our calendar.

An excellent lunch was enjoyed by all, including our new apprentice, Yeomen, Freemen and Liveryman.