59. United Guilds Service and Lunch, 16 March

Following a rather late night, Sandra and I were up early and back in the City to attend the 76th Service of the United Guilds of the City of London at St Paul’s Cathedral. This service is attended by the Masters, Wardens and members of every Livery Company. The Cathedral is filled to capacity. It was a little disappointing that the Water Conservators were only represented by seven people. Considerably fewer than in previous years.

There is a great deal of pageantry at the start and conclusion of the service with processions in and out of Beadles, Masters and Prime Wardens of selected Companies and Sheriffs followed by the Choir and Church dignitaries.  An interesting and in part humorous sermon was given by the Bishop of Edmundsbury and Ipswich. 

At the conclusion of the service the gathering of Liverymen in their gowns on the steps of St Paul’s draws considerable attention from tourists and the general public. The Water Conservators were invited to lunch by the Master Cook in the Alderman’s Dining Room at the Guildhall. We were welcomed by the Master, Mark Grove, and enjoyed a splendid meal from the Cook and the Butler! Our grateful thanks to Mark for the very kind invitation.