Tax, Opium and the Olympics

06.03.12

And so the the last event before the big day, and to Mincing Lane which was once the world's leading centre for tea and spices trading, and in the 18th Century was the centre of the British opium business as well as other drugs - but no more. This was the sedate and entirely legal Worshipful Company of Tax Advisers Budget Banquet which took place at the spacious and sumptuous Clothworkers Hall where we are to have the Bowden Dinner in October.

Walking up the magnificent grand travertine marble staircase set beneath a majestic glass dome we were greeted by the Master Peter Gravestock and his Wardens. Following the reception, about 150 of us sat down for an excellent dinner, fine company and good speeches including the Guest Speaker Sir John Armitt, Chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority who have been responsible for creating the Olympics site on budget and on time.There were some fascinating facts and anecdotes leaving us all eager for the opening of the Olympics in July. A stirrup cup followed and I made my way back home (over the bridge) for the last time for a week or two.

John Flynn
Master Marketor