The annual Worshipful Company of Butchers’ Common Hall ceremony took place on 12th September with a new Master and Court elected for the coming year.
After meeting the challenges of a momentous period for the Livery, Graham Baker concluded his time as Master by thanking those who had worked so hard to ensure Common Hall 2019 took place back in Butchers’ Hall following its multi-million-pound refurbishment. He was also presented with his Past Masters’ Badge.
Tim Dumenil was elected Master for the coming year, along with the Wardens and Assistants who make up the Court and take on the responsibility of running the Company. Jean Sawdon and Dave Richards joined the Court as new Assistants.
Past Master Geoff Gillo and Assistant Bill Jermey both stepped down and were thanks given for their service and support.
The traditional church service took place at St Bartholomew the Great prior to Common Hall, with a Champagne reception and lunch in the Great Hall following on from the formalities.
During his speech, new Master Tim Dumenil said: “I’m deeply honoured to accept the great privilege you have bestowed on me and I feel immensely humbled to be elected Master for the ensuing year.
“It’s also really special to be clothed in Butchers’ Hall, the newest and, I think, best Livery Hall in the City.”
Tim also paid tribute to the outgoing Master, Graham Baker: “I’m sure those here will join me in thanking you for being the right Master, in the right place, at the right time.”
You can read the Master's speech in full here (member access only).
The 2019 Court for the Worshipful Company of Butchers:
Master:
Timothy Peter Dumenil
Wardens:
Margaret Andrea Boanas; Derek William Berry; Christopher Frank Wood; John Allton Jones; Gwyn Howells
Assistants:
Patricia Jane Dart; Stuart Peter James Thompson; Graham William Baker; Andrew William Parker; Stephen John Chick; Peter Howard Allen; Timothy John Stone; David Edwin Baker; Anthony Michael Stanton; Robert John Yandell; Rachel Griffiths; Robert John Bansback OBE; Alan Paul Thompson; Jean Margaret Sawdon; David William Richards