The latest news about and from the Worshipful Company of Butchers

Run Your River in Memory of Warden Derek Berry

Published on: 14 July 2021

For a number of years, our Livery has supported Teach First's Run the River and we want your involvement this year as we once again invite you to Run Your River wherever you choose during the period 7th to 12th September.

Warden Derek Berry 1949-2020.

Last year, with the sad death of Warden Derek Berry we had a strong contingent walking, running and cycling in his memory.

Indeed, the most common comment afterwards was “that was great, please sign me up for next year." - and we plan to.

In 2021 we are anticipating an even larger number of participants will sign up to raise money for Teach First, a charity that Derek gave much support to and one that our Livery is actively involved in.

All are welcome to join in this event as, once again, we will be participating in memory of Derek. If anyone would like to invite a few friends to join in too, that would be fantastic.

WCB is offering three options to take part in Run Your River:

1.      Walk/run 5km/10km wherever you choose during the period 7th to 12th September.

2.      Margaret Boanas is hosting a group walking 5km around Smithfield taking in one or two of the local hostelries. This will take place n on the evening of the 8th September, leaving the Rotunda in Smithfield at 6pm, lasting 30- 45 mins. We hope that this will allow many Liverymen, that will be in London for Common Hall the following day, the opportunity to take part in this event. The start point is most poignant as there is a beautiful rose planted here in Derek's memory.

'The Memorial Tree' at St Joseph's Hospice.

3. Gerald Shortland will host a 10km run either through the London Parks or perhaps along the river from Greenwich to Tower Bridge. (Date tbc but likely September 8th).

There is absolutely no reason why individuals shouldn’t combine a run with a walk around Smithfield.

How to register and join in

  • To register: https://www.teachfirst.org.uk/run-the-river
  • Our team is: Worshipful Co of Butchers in memory of Derek Berry
  • Password: ‘Barnsley Chop’ Please note: the capital B and C with a space between Barnsley and Chop. 

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact Gerald Shortland by sending an email to gdshortland@gmail.com or you can telephone 07887 636 091.