St Georges Court and Livery Dinner, Thursday 1st May 2014
Many countries and people around the world celebrate St George but on the evening of Thursday 1st May 2014 The Worshipful Company of Bowyers in The City of London must surely have made him their own.
The setting of Stationers Hall in Ava Maria Lane was the perfect location for members of the Court, Liverymen, Freemen guests, guests and their ladies and partners to join in a very convivial evening within the grandeur of this fine hall.
Following the line to be introduced to The Master and other members of the court the evening started with a champagne reception and a chance to meet friends old and new. Dinner was called and seats were taken at the finely laid tables. Once the top table had entered grace was said by The Reverend John Hayton TD
An excellent meal was provided of Isle of Wight asparagus with hollandaise sauce followed by a fish course of cod on a soft pea compote and then the gathering were entertained by the "Procession of the beef" which was duly knighted 'Sir-loin'. It was then served - English sirloin beef with a truffle jus, horseradish filled Yorkshire puddings, baby jacket potatoes and grilled vegetables and all this was complimented with wines from Uruguay, Bordeaux and Port from the house of Barao.
As is tradition, all took part in the ceremony of the loving cup, the traditional way of sealing friendship whilst at the same time keeping the sword arm occupied!
Old hands at this ceremony guided guests in the procedure and whilst this part of the evening always generates smiles and comment it is a tradition enjoyed.
Toasts were proposed and then a warm welcome to our guests was made by Liveryman Christian Major and another toast was proposed.
The Master, Michael Wren, introduced our distinguished principle guest Air Chief Marshall Sir Clive Loader KCB OBE ADC
We were interested to hear his views on his position and role as Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire and the aspirations that he has for the betterment of policing in general for Leicestershire and other forces.
The evening concluded to the chant of "Cry God, Elizabeth and St George" The Master then invited all to partake of a stirrup cup before coaches being called at eleven.
St George is believed to have been born a Greek Christian in the town of Lydda in Palestine, possibly between 275 AD and 285 AD.
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