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Agincourt Banquet, Armourers' Hall 17 October

The Agincourt Banquet is one of the Bowyers' annual flagship events at which the Company celebrates both it's rich history and it's diverse range of external relationships(including its military affiliations). This year's banquet took place in the familiar (but always stunning) setting of Armourers' Hall, a most fitting backdrop for this auspicious occasion.

Eighty nine Bowyers and guests assembled for a champagne reception followed by a delicious four course dinner. Notwithstanding the excellent food and wine there were many other highlights. First was the superb Carpet Guard of Brentwood Sea Cadets who paraded, immaculately turned out, under the watchful eye of their Commanding Officer, PO Sam Hayward and who piped us into dinner. The Brentwood Sea Cadets receive an annual donation from the Bowyers and provide their young Cadets with first class training opportunities. They were all a real credit to their unit. Secondly, our guests from the City: we were honoured to welcome Alderman Tim Hailes who responded to our own Past Master The Revd John Hayton's toast to the guests as well as the current Master of the Armourers and Brasiers, Mr Mike Goulette, the Master Fletcher, Mr Duncan Garland and the Fletchers' Clerk, Miss Kate Pink. Thirdly, guests from our military affiliations. We were pleased to welcome Cdr Thom Hobbs, the Commanding Officer (designate) of HMS Northumberland who will take command of the ship in December. From the Mercian Regiment our guests also included the Commanding Officers of the 1st and 2nd Battalions, Lt Col Ned Kelly OBE and Lt Col Mark Davis respectively. As is normal at this event, dinner was rounded off with some singing including a rousing rendition of the Bowyers' Song led by an excellent pianist and baritone from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

A final mention should go to a private guest of the Immediate Past Master, Mr Bill Terry, who had recently hosted a group of Bowyers to view his impressive archery collection and who had most generously presented commemorative Agincourt Medals to members of the Court.

In his own speech, the Master described the recent work and achievements of the Company. It was a most fitting occasion to reflect on these. He also took the opportunity to welcome our new Chaplain, Father David Armstrong, the Priest in Charge at the Bowyers' 'home' church of St Botolph without Bishopsgate. We look forward to seeing much more of David in the future.

Tony Marinos
Clerk

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