The Spirit of St Florian’s Banquet 2025
In the heart of the City of London, the Worshipful Company of Firefighters gathered at Innholders’ Hall for its annual St Florian’s Banquet — an evening where service, fellowship, and family met in perfect harmony. Beneath the gleam of chandeliers and the sound of a harp’s first delicate notes, Masters and Wardens in their scarlet robes welcomed guests to a night that embodied the Company’s motto: Service – Fellowship – Harmony – Honour.
A Celebration of Fellowship
From the first toast to the last, the evening was a vivid reflection of the fellowship that lies at the Company’s heart. Visiting Masters from across the Livery, Past Masters of the Company, members, families, and friends filled the Great Hall. With the careful coordination of the Beadle and Sentinels, and the expert service of The Cook & The Butler, the occasion flowed seamlessly — a balance of ceremony, conversation, and warmth that defined the Firefighters’ fellowship in its purest form.
Honouring Service and Military Partnerships
The Banquet also paid tribute to the Company’s deep links with the Armed Forces. Present were Colonel Andrew Maber-Jones (Retd), Lt Col David Clarke CVO, and Lieutenant Alex Ronaldson RN, together representing the Army, the Royal Air Force, and the Royal Navy — a living symbol of courage and service in all its forms. The ties between firefighting and the military are forged in shared values: discipline, leadership, and selfless duty to others. Their presence reminded all that the Company stands shoulder-to-shoulder with those who serve.
Faith, Reflection and Purpose
Another moment of significance came with the first formal involvement of the Company’s Honorary Chaplain, the Reverend Dr Simon Cuff, whose grace offered a quiet reminder of gratitude and purpose amid the splendour of the evening. His words framed the occasion as more than a banquet — as a celebration of community, service, and reflection on those who give of themselves for the good of others.
Family, Friends and the Future
Beyond tradition and ceremony, the warmth of family was ever-present. Members dined alongside partners, children, and lifelong friends — a true reflection of the Firefighters’ spirit that welcomes all who share its values. Among the guests were young Cadets, representing the next generation of service. Their presence was a powerful reminder that the Company’s legacy lies not only in its proud history, but in the encouragement and mentorship of those who will serve in years to come.
Music, Atmosphere and Tradition
Throughout the evening, the hall was filled with the graceful music of harpist Lucia Foti, whose playing framed moments of reflection and conversation alike. The soft notes of her harp echoed against oak-panelled walls, while the polished silver of The Cook & The Butler’s service gleamed under candlelight. In every detail — from the measured rhythm of the toasts to the laughter shared among friends — the spirit of fellowship was alive and well.
Discover More
The St Florian’s Banquet stands as a testament to what the Worshipful Company of Firefighters represents: honour in service, joy in community, and a steadfast commitment to the City of London and beyond.
To explore more moments from this year’s Banquet, visit the WCoFF Flickr Gallery.
To learn about our work, charitable activities, and membership opportunities, visit www.wcoff.org — and be part of a Company where fellowship truly flourishes.