Page 185 - Archived Back Issues

St. Florian’s Banquet
The St. Florian’s installation banquet was held on Wednesday 8th October at Trinity House near the Tower of London. Almost 100 people enjoyed a splendid meal in the Library room of Trinity House, with views onto the Tower.
The Master, Bryan Spearman, welcomed everyone to the dinner. After the meal, loving cup and loyal toasts, Mr Ron Murray, Upper Warden, introduced the principal guests who included Mr David Raines, Master of the Distillers, Mr. Tahhan, Master of the Environmental Cleaners and Commander Graham Hockley, secretary of Trinity House.
Trinity House was celebrating its 500th anniversary with the original charter being granted by Henry V111 in 1514. So it was very great honour for the Worshipful Company of Firefighters to be allowed to join in this celebration by having our annual installation banquet at Trinity House and to have the Secretary of Trinity House, Commander Graham Hockley address the Company and to propose the toast to Company on behalf of the guests. Commander Hockley, in his speech, referred to the fact that most mariners have been trained in how to deal with fires at sea, so that they have an inherent admiration for the fire service.
He also referred to the plaque on the wall within the building commemorating the life of auxiliary fireman Abraham Lewis who gave his life in dealing with an incendiary fire that stated in Trinity House in May 1941 during the blitz. It wasn’t the first time that Trinity House had been affected by Fire. In 1666, the fraternity lost its building (during the time Samuel Pepys was Master) and again in 1718, their building down by the port was lost to fire. The building was hit also in December 1940, which destroyed most of their valuable pictures and models.
Prior to the talk by Commander Hockley, there was a presentation of the Worshipful Company of Firefighters’ award to Mr Cameron Black QFSM and Mr Stephen Nesbit on behalf of the UK Rescue Operation for their part in the development and transfer of skills internationally on rescue operations, thereby helping other countries reduce death and injuries in crash sites.
The Master completed the evening speeches, and was happy to announce that some £20k had been raised at the Fire Industry ball for the charities and that membership of the Company had now reached 200. The Master then invited guests to join him in a stirrup cup to conclude a lovely evening.
The Worshipful Company of Firefighters' Liveryman Dinner
On 27th January, the Liveryman Dinner was held in the East India club. This is always an event that allows liveried members an opportunity to catch up with fellow liverymen in a lively, convivial and relaxing atmosphere. The meal is always excellent and there are good opportunities to talk and learn from fellow diners about personal and livery activities. It is worth putting the date in your diary for next year's dinner.
Ladies Day Out
The ladies and some of their partners enjoyed a day out in the City of London on Monday 16th February, with a tour of the Mansion House, followed by tea on HQS Wellington - all organised by Lynn Spearman, the Master’s wife. The tour of the Mansion House included a trip into the vaults to see some rare Mayoral treasures. A quick walk through the rain ended with some warmth on board this historic ship which saw action at Dunkirk and rescued over 450 naval seamen
Meet the Firefighters
Regular "Meet the Firefighters" events are held throughout the year, mostly at Winchester House. Claire Mansi has been coordinating these events and if you know of a prospective member, who would like some information on the WCoFF and perhaps could attend this event please let Claire or the Clerk know.
The Worshipful Company of Firefighters Carol Service
The festive season got underway with a very well supported splendid annual Company Carol Service held at St. Mary Le Bow on Friday 12th December. A choir of 4 that sounded like 10, entertained and lead the congregation through many popular carols.
The readings were delivered by Dr. Nicole Hoffmann, Under Warden in Waiting Andrew Mayes, the Clerk, Steven Tamcken, and the Master, Bryan Spearman.
As always, the Reverend George Bush regaled us all in his own inimitable style with an excellent sermon, sending us merrily on our festive way.
The Master's Special Project
The Master welcomed some 35 Freemen and Liverymen to an evening at the East India Club on February 19th to give an introduction to the structure and workings of the Company, and to encourage greater participation from members. Following the Master’s welcome, there was a series of presentations by the Senior Past Master Locum, Jeremy Beech, and by Standing Committee Chairmen and the Clerk Steven Tamcken. A summary of these presentations were included in a special Mini Salamander for the benefit of those who were unable to attend. This can be found on the Company web site.
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