Breakfast, Election and Lunch

01.10.12

Every year since 1189 a new Lord Mayor has been elected in the City of London. A comparatively solemn  ceremony, it takes place in the magnificent Guildhall in the presence of over 900 people all of whom serve the City in some way. For me, and other members of Livery Companies, this was not just about the election but an opportunity to meet with others involved in the City.

The day started at 8:00am with breakfast at the Carpenters Hall in Throgmorton Avenue which was provided by The Cook & The Butler, a catering company to the City. This was a chance to meet some of the new Masters and to bid farewell to those whose term ends shortly. An so on to our office in London Wall and then to the Crypt of the Guildhall to be robed prior to processing to the 850 year old church of St Lawrence Jewry next Guildhall which, as you will have guessed was close by. An excellent service with an impressive choir, the Sermon was delivered by the Chaplain to the Lord Mayor.

And so back to the Guildhall to process in with the Masters of the other 107 Worshipful Companies together the Aldermen, Sheriffs and Officers of the City plus, of course, the existing Lord Mayor, Alderman David Wootton. The election only being attended by Liverymen, we were given a choice of three candidates, and so the assembled throng, on a show of hands and a cry of yes, elected Michael Gifford as Lord Mayor for the forthcoming year. Before he is formally enrolled he will have to undergo the Silent Ceremony, in which the power is transferred from the current  incumbent, and the Lord Mayors Show, which ensures that he is recognised by the City.

Next a short walk past St Paul's to the Stationers Hall where there was held an Election Luncheon. This was a chance to catch up with other Marketors, and indeed the Mistress, and enjoy an excellent meal of trout and guinea fowl together with fine company. And so back to the office and then home by 5:00pm. A very pleasant day.

John Flynn
Master Marketor