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Over 150 members and guests enjoyed a
lovely evening at the Vintners’ Hall on Friday
16th October at the St. Florian’s Installation
banquet.
Following a champagne reception when there
was an opportunity to view the wonderful
collection of wine glasses and silverware,
we were called to the glorious dining room. A
fitting grace was “poemed” by the Reverend
George Bush and during the meal, musical
entertainment was provided by pianist Mark
Risi. Upper Warden Bruce Hoad proposed the
toast to the guests and it was a pleasure to hear
one of the principal guests, Mark Smith, curator
of the Royal Artillery museum at Woolwich
Arsenal, give a delightful talk on his collection
(over 6000) of war-time medals.
Mark also explained the origin of the Victoria
Cross as a medal and he illustrated his talk
with some stories of the bravery of men who
had won it. He then proposed a toast to the
Worshipful Company of Firefighters. Our new
Master, Ron Murray, responded on behalf of
the Company, thanking his family and friends
for supporting him for the year ahead.
Finally, as a surprise, Rose Clarkson, wife of the
Father of the Company Gerald Clarkson, also
proposed a toast to the Firefighters, wishing
Ron and his team success in the year ahead.
St. FLORIAN’S INSTALLATION
BANQUET 2015
THE HISTORY
The Ceremony of the loving cup, which is
traditional with all livery companies, is said to
date back to Saxon times before the Norman
Conquest of 1066, and to derive from the
assassination, by command of Elfrida, of King
Edward whilst drinking.
Master Ron Murray, Left: Upper Warden Bruce Hoad & Right: Renter Warden John Mansfield
FORMAL EVENTS
The loving cup ceremony