It’s decades since we last dined at Merchant Taylors’ Hall, which is very much one of “The Big Four” (We’ve been to all of Drapers, Goldsmiths, and Fishmongers in the past two years.). Hidden away behind anonymous facade, just east of the Bank of England, lies a collection of grand reception rooms and a lovely courtyard garden. The Great Hall itself is very splendid and the only one in London with an organ. As well as starting the new Livery year in style, and Installing Jonathan Grosvenor as Master, we have several things to celebrate!  - Firstly, our splendid Beadle has served us for ten years, and we all wish to mark this milestone with a suitable presentation. - Secondly, there is our Sword of Honour to present to the best contributor to our fine 47 Squadron Association. - Lastly, but by no means least, we have a number of presentations to recent Past Masters. The Almoner will give a short update on the grants the Trustees have been making on our behalf, plus the first of our small appeals, made on big dinner nights this coming year, at which a Member will ask us to support a specific fundraiser of limited size, to which they are personally committed. As for entertainment, the meal, the fellowship and the lovely surroundings apart, we will take fully advantage of the organ, with a short concert after dinner. The Master-elect has persuaded our own Miles Hedges, who is a fine singer, to join up with leading Australian soprano, Samantha Hargreaves, and fine baritone, David Bole (a former state trumpeter, no less!) and the well-known City Minstrel, Julian Cable on the organ, to light up the Hall with a range of songs, the last of which should blow the roof off (Just don’t tell...

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This annual event is open to Members and former Members of Court and to the Trustees of our Charity, plus their Consorts. The evening provides an opportunity for everyone to socialise together and most importantly, to discuss issues surrounding our Company's and Charity's governance, fundraising and grant making. The speaker is usually someone who can add to such discussions. This year, the Dinner is being held at the Army and Navy Club at the western end of Pall Mall, and our guest speaker will be the CO of our newest military affiliate. After the meal, the Colonel will address us on the welfare challenges that he and his SLT face in relation to their soldiers, many of whom are quite young. Dress for the evening is black tie or livery uniform, and invitations will go out shortly to those eligible to attend. Places are priced up and invoiced after the event, once all the costs are known.