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News 2025
HMS Belfast Ceremonial Sword Presentation 2025
Tuesday 29th April 2025
It was an honour for Broad Street Ward to Club to present a ceremonial sword to City of London Sea Cadets onboard HMS BELFAST. The sword belonged to club member Robin Darbyshire's grandfather and dates from at least 1901, when he graduated as a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy. Robin kindly donated it to the club to enable Chairman Sarah Sturrock to present it to the Commanding Officer. We also had a tour of the ship and a small reception where we were able to chat with cadets and officers. Thanks to all who made it happen including Past Chairman Cdr James Nisbet who is London Area Officer for the Sea Cadets.
We’re proud of our affiliation with this Unit - and it’s always a pleasure to visit them or see them forming the carpet guard at our Civic Lunch.
25 Members of the Broad Street Ward Club headed towards the south coast for a sunny day out in the beautiful city of Chichester.
Connecting with our Alderman and President Michael Mainelli's transatlantic roots, we started with a fascinating visit to the West Sussex Record Office where we viewed the remarkable Sussex Declaration.
This is one of only two known original ceremonial parchment copies of the American Declaration of Independence, the other being the original Matlack Declaration that lives in the National Archives in Washington DC.
As the County Archivist, Wendy Walker, explained to us, it was donated to the County Archive the 1950s., but it wasn’t until a Harvard research study in 2016 that the importance of this document was uncovered. Penned in the 1780s, it is a close copy of the original, though without the delegates’ signatures just a list of their names (intriguingly in a different order). How it came to be in West Sussex is not completely clear though thought to be connected to the 3rd Duke of Richmond, who lived at nearby Goodwood and was known as the Radical Duke for his support of the Americans during the Revolution.
After an excellent lunch in the Cloisters Cafe and chance to wander in the gardens in the sunshine, our afternoon visit was to Chichester Cathedral. Our tour guides were fantastic at showing us the amazing treasures of St Richard’s ancient cathedral which is also home to an amazing collection of modern art from fabulous tapestries to paintings, font and metalwork, and a Marc Chagall stained glass window.
While our Club is rooted in the City of London, it was wonderful to spread our wings for a day!
Have you ever stopped when walking along Lothbury, on the southern border of our Ward, and wondered about the history of this less than 200m long street?
On 12th February we gathered in St Margaret’s church in the middle of the street for a fascinating talk by Past Master Clockmaker James Nye who did just that and so set off on a research journey to find out about what it was like in the period just before the Great Fire.
One of the concentrations of early clockmakers in the City - and a place in which clockmaking innovations like the pendulum were initiated - James’ goal was to get a picture of what life in Lothbury would have been like between c1620 and 1660. Who lived there? Why were there so many clockmakers - hard to tell but maybe linked to the proximity of Founders, whose Hall was just north of the street. Who were their neighbours - Founders, merchants, Masters of several different Livery Companies, rich and poor intermingled. What were their lives like in a polluted city, with hotbeds of political and social unrest in local taverns and eating houses?
This was a fascinating lecture, brought to life by James’ telling and by the fact that he could point to what he was talking about as we sat with the tombstones of some of the characters he described under our feet.
As ever we were wonderfully hosted in St Margaret’s and enjoyed a cold buffet and a few glasses afterwards.
Forty Club Members and their guests had a very enjoyable day at the H Forman & Son smokehouse on Fish Island at the edge of the Olympic Park on 14th January.
On a crisp sunny day we gathered in a room with great views over the London Stadium to kick off with a fascinating and entertaining talk by Lance Forman, current owner of this 120 year old family business. As well as giving us the background on smoking salmon and how Forman’s invented the now registered London dry cure method, and the evolution of the family business, he also regaled us with the saga of how they were moved to make way for the stadium and Olympic Games.
We then donned white coats, hairnets and shoe covers went down into the factory for an amazing demonstration of fish preparation and slicing skills from Darren Matson, Guinness World Record holder for the fastest time for biking and slicing a smoked salmon. With great and groan-worthy humour he brought the whole process of salmon smoking to life.
After this we were definitely ready for our lunch - of smoked salmon of course. And none could resist a bit of shopping before leaving, once we’d confirmed how delicious the products are!
A lovely carol service with our friends at Coleman Street Ward Club and the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers, followed by successful supper afterwards at Glaziers Hall, accompanied by The Hendo Washboard Kings - who played on our Lord Mayor's Show float in 2023 - which even led to a bit of dancing! There was cake courtesy of one of the Coleman St members as usual. Thanks to the Master Scientific Instrument Makers Master who had also organised a raffle which meant various people left the evening with a bottle of bubbles in hand!.
A magnificent Civic Luncheon with the Finest Ward Club in the City!
Chairman Sarah Sturrock welcomed 196 members and guests to the largest surviving medieval Crypts in London — and arguably the most atmospheric - dating back to 1042 in Guildhall. Everyone looked resplendent as they enjoyed a fizz reception before moving to the main event, a delicious lunch catered by our friends at The Cook and The Butler. Club President, the Late Lord Mayor Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli welcomed everyone with a witty (but short!) speech. After lunch Sarah welcomed the official guests - all nine Masters of the Livery Companies and Guilds in the Ward, the City Remembrancer, our Honorary Chaplain (the inimitable Rev'd Prebendary Jeremy Crossley), Sub Lieutenant Ben McDonald RNR who kindly arrange the Carpet Guard by the City of London Sea Cadets (very smart!), and last but by no means least Sheriff David and Miranda Chalk. Sarah presented the Club's donations to the Lord Mayor's Appeal and the Sheriffs' and Recorder's Fund. Sheriff David concluded the lunch with very kind words about the Club and his pride at being a member.
We were privileged to be invited to the Silent Ceremony to witness the installation of Lord Mayor Alastair King followed by the Presentation of Addresses, presenting a gift of an engraved pen set to Club member Sheriff David Chalk. We were delighted to meet the Honorary Ward Clerk, Adrian Smallwood and the Ward Beadle George Martin, both Club members. On Saturday courtesy of David, we attended the Lord Mayor's Show, which was amazing (as always). We are incredibly grateful for the support that the Club receives from our members who are senior in the City, and never forget that attending such events is a real privilege.
We were privileged to be hosted by Yeoman Warder "Jimmy" James for the Ceremony of the Keys. Jimmy was a great host and guide - his mix of stories and patter about the centuries of history of the Tower, and those who have spent time within its walls, was very entertaining. Then lovely to have a drink in The Keys, the Yeoman Warders' Club - with various BSWC members proving lucky in the raffle. Chairman Sarah Sturrock presented Jimmy with a generous donation to the Yeoman Warders' Charity from those attending the Ceremony. When we gathered for the 7 minute Ceremony of the Keys that has been going on uninterrupted for nearly 800 years, a mist and slight drizzle only made it more atmospheric as the Yeoman Guard and Gurkha Regiment on duty ensured that the Tower was locked up safely for the night once more.
The Chairman arranged for us to go mudlarking on the Thames. After an introductory talk and briefing by our excellent guide we set off on the foreshore feeling confident of finding at least some gold coins - we scored €1,50! We did, though, have some fascinating finds from Medieval, Tudor and Georgian pottery to almost complete clay pipe bowls. We proudly presented our finds and photographed them, then left them to return to the Thames for more lucky people to find.
Afterwards we had lovely lunch at Cote St Pauls, where luckily we arrived early enough to clean up (and in your secretary's case scrape mud off from just about everywhere!)
A fabulous garden party at St Margaret Lothbury organised this year by our friends at Coleman Street Ward Club. The weather held up, the wine and conversation flowed, and once again we had Basil Preuveneers as a 'strolling minstrel' on his piano accordion (yes, we had a singalong!).
It was lovely to see so many members from both Clubs (over 80 all together) and several people who want to join the Club.
Our Honorary Chaplain Jeremy Crossley welcomed us into his lovely Rectory, formed from some of the last remaining bits of St Dunstan’s in the East. A welcoming host, he treated us to a lovely lunch that he’d been up since the early hours to prepare. Lovely chat and many laughs were had.
We then moved on to St Paul’s, where he gave us a lovely tour, showing us the trumpets that after Prince Philip had expressed his dislike of them were silenced until he after he had died, Jeremy's own seat in the Quire as Prebendary of St Pancras and the back route he uses to slip out to the Dean’s bathroom during particularly long services! We also viewed the moving Covid memorial and four organs. He directed some of us up to the Whispering Gallery - with a bold threesome making it all the way up the over 600 stairs to the very top outside gallery for a view of London’s landmarks - many of which had their heads in the low clouds.
We finished the afternoon by attending a beautifully a capella sung Evensong, sitting in the Quire itself with a special welcome mention to Broad Street Ward Club in the service.
The Chairman presented a donation to Reverend Prebendary Jeremy Crossley to thank him for all he does for the Club.
Altogether a day to remember of wonderful day of fellowship and fun. Huge thanks to Jeremy for making it possible
With the Royal Family on their holidays in Scotland, Kelley McIntyre Transport Manager and Benny Assistant to the Crown Equerry, managed to find time to give members of Broad Street Ward Club a private tour of the Royal Mews.
They told us about the challenges of manoeuvring the Golden State Coach and it’s last run out at the Coronation, the strength needed to drive the beautiful State Rolls Royces without power steering, and showed us the new hybrid semi state modern range rovers and Renault Twizzler given to the late Queen by the French. With insights into the life of the Mews staff living in this hidden corner of London and stories of their work, it made for a fascinating visit. All wrapped up with a convivial lunch of course, at a local hostelry!
The Chairman, Sarah Sturrock (pictured above), who is Consort to the Master Carman, Club Member David Pugsley, was delighted to invite members to attend the Cart Marking ceremony.
Cart Marking showcases a truly unique collection of transport dating from the horse and cart to the latest, cleanest, greenest, and safest in use today.
The regulation of carts dates back over 750 years to the early days of the City, with the ceremony of Cart Marking evolving over time.
We saw handcarts, horses and carts, horse-drawn carriages, steam engines, military vehicles and motorcycles together with historic, vintage and specialist vehicles including the latest, powered by electricity and hydrogen, on display. The vehicles made their way to Guildhall Yard where they were greeted by the Lord Mayor of the City of London, our Club President Alderman Michael Mainelli others wearing robes and insignia. As each vehicle was presented for marking, a commentator told us about its history and relevance today while they were branded with a red hot branding iron, having paid 5 shillings for the privilege!
Afterwards we enjoyed a wonderful lunch at Guildhall after which we had group photo with the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress.
Mansion House Visit and Afternoon Tea with the Lady Mayoress
Friday 28th June 2024
We enjoyed a fabulous day at the Mansion House, starting with an Art Tour where our guide took us through the highlights of the Harold Samuel Collection of seventeenth century Dutch and Flemish paintings, described as "the finest collection of such works to be formed in Britain this century", including Frans Hals' The Merry Lute Player. We then had a tour of Mansion House and heard about the architecture and décor of the House. Finally the Lady Mayoress, Club Member Elisabeth Mainelli, joined us for a lovely afternoon tea in the Long Parlour. Chairman Sarah Sturrock presented a donation to the City of London Hygiene Bank, a charity which fights against hygiene poverty.
Despite the election announcement Sir Robert arrived ready to take any and all questions moderated by Chairman Sarah Sturrock. The questions were varied, topical and forward thinking and Sir Robert answered them all in depth, honestly and even gave us a few laughs.
We also enjoyed a fizz reception and supper afterwards and Sir Robert came to every table before leaving.
Congratulations to our new Chairman Sarah Sturrock who was installed at our AGM on Monday. Sarah is working on her programme of events, keep an eye on the website for details https://broadstreetwardclub.org/events
The Chairman installed Richard Muir as Deputy Chairman and the Immediate Past Chairman presented the Club's donation to St Margarets Lothbury to The Reverend Prebendary Jeremy Crossley.
We also welcomed Lizette May as Honorary Treasurer and Barry Laden MBE and @Mark Davies as new Committee members. Our thanks to outgoing Honorary Treasurer Judy Bingham for her service to the Club over the past four years and retiring Committee members Roger Walsh, Mike Bradly Russell and Martin Samuel for their service over many years.
Judith Rich OBE was installed as Immediate Past Chairman; our thanks to her for a super year celebrating the Mayoralty of our President the Rt Hon Lord Mayor, Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli
Afterwards we enjoyed a drinks and nibbles reception catching up with friends old and new.
A Broad Street Ward Club walking tour of Fleet Street and the surrounding area got off to an interesting start when our guide was unavoidably running late. Club member John Wilson stepped in and heroically led us until the guide could arrive!
We started at St Clement Danes and continued through Inner and Middle Temple, and then meandered along Fleet Street taking in Dr Johnson's House and other notable sites.
We concluded the evening with supper at Cote St Paul's where we presented our guide with a donation to the Lord Mayor's Appeal https://www.thelordmayorsappeal.org
BSWC does the Lord Mayors Big Curry Lunch. 20 tickets sold (excellent) but so many members also there with other organisations...hard to keep track!
A good time had by all whilst contributing to the fundraising which places a strong emphasis on helping veterans of all the services into sustainable employment in the civilian world.
The Honorary Secretary was privileged to attend the launch of the Lord Mayor's Big Curry Lunch garden in Guildhall Yard. The opening of the garden by HRH The Duke of Kent was preceded by speeches from the Lord Mayor and the chairman of The Royal Parks, Club member Loyd Grosman who described Gianna Utilini's design. This year’s garden highlights the children of the military, several of whom had created moving works of art for the occasion.
The 2024 Big Curry Lunch aims to raise £450,000, to add to over£3 million raised by the event in total. This year the focus is on pain management to address the physical and psychological pain barriers that prevent veterans from leading a full life, helping veterans secure employment, as well as education and training opportunities.
We are delighted that the Club supports the Big Curry Lunch and this year we have sold 20 tickets so far.
The Chairman was thrilled that 25 Past Chairmen of Broad Street Ward Club, including the Lord Mayor Michael Mainelli, attended a special lunch in the Members' Private Dining Room at Guildhall. It was lovely for all to catch up with old friends and the occasion was very jolly indeed.
The Lord Mayor presented all attendees with "The Lord Mayor's Spoon", a fine representation of a bag-pipe playing puffin on an impossible dice (see his coat of arms on https://www.mainelli.org as well as more about his theme of Connect to Prosper). The Chairman and Hon. Secretary also received a lovely glass coin which you can see here https://www.mainelli.org/?page_id=3807
An Evening with Paul Double, Late Remembrancer of the City of London. A super evening at the Members' Private Dining Room at Guildhall where 30 members enjoyed Paul's stories and more serious reminiscences of his 20 years in office. His talk was followed by a supper by The Cook & The Butler Event Company Ltd - delicious as always.
The ambiance was cosy - not least because of fused lights and needing to bring in candles and lamps. No-one was fazed, but photography was tricky - as you can tell by photos of the event here:
16 keen whisky enthusiasts from Broad Street Ward Club, including a few guests, enjoyed a whisky tasting & supper event at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society during Burns' Week on Tuesday, 23 January 2024.
A total of six cask strength whiskies were sampled, suitably accompanied by oatcakes & water, to not only 'cut' the drams (using a dropper so as not to drown the whisky!) but also to cleanse the palate between the different whiskies.
We were honoured to once again be guided through the whiskies by the legendary Master Brand Ambassador from the SMWS, John McCheyne, with whom our own Committee Member Richard Muir, who organised the event, has worked with on similar tastings for 10 years. John also recounted several amusing whisky related stories which were appreciated by all those present.
The tasting event included a one-course supper provided by the adjacent Bleeding Heart Bistro & was matched with a splendid spicy & sweet dram from the Balmenach Distillery in the Speyside Region of Scotland, selected by Richard; even at an ABV of 59.2%, there were no complaints from any attendees!
Richard proposed a vote of thanks to John & everyone departed having enjoyed the evening, the company & a worthy introduction to cask strength whisky if it was the first time
news 2023 continued
Carol Service and Reception 2023
Monday 11th December 2023
Our final event of the year, the Annual Carol Service at St Margaret Lothbury followed by a very convivial reception and light supper at Glaziers Hall. It is always so atmospheric with amazing singers and Cliff working the lights. Thanks to our friends at The Scientific Instrument Makers for arranging the reception for us all, including Coleman Street Ward Club.
CIVIC LUNCH AT MANSION HOUSE: A SPLENDID OCCASION, SHOWING THE CLUB AT ITS BEST
Monday 20th November 2023
The Chairman was delighted to host an historic Annual Civic Luncheon
to celebrate the installation of the Lord Mayor - our President, Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli.
309 members and guests enjoyed the fabulous surroundings of Mansion House, the Lord Mayor's home for the year, in the presence of The Lord Mayor, Lady Mayoress, Sheriff Bronek Masojada and Mrs Jane Masojada, as well as Masters of all of the Livery Companies and Guilds in the Ward.
The lunch was splendid in every respect and the Chairman took the opportunity to make several presentations - Life Memberships of the Club to the Lady Mayoress, Elisabeth Mainelli and John Scott JP, a gift to Committee Member Richard Muir for his work on the Lord Mayor's Show and finally the Club's donation to the Lor Mayor's Appeal and the Sheriffs' and Recorder's fund.
The Chairman and other members of the Committee and Club were privileged to attend the Silent Ceremony to witness the admission of our Club President, Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli, The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of the City of London...with front row seats in the Great Hall! We then presented the Lord Mayor with a gift of a Caran d'Ache pen and afterwards enjoyed a reception in the Old Library at Guildhall. On Saturday the Chairman, Judith Rich OBE, and Secretary, Christine Cook, were invited to view the Lord Mayors Show from the balcony at Mansion House. What a marvellous way to see the Ward of Broad Street float which we organised, with much hard work from Committee Member Richard Muir.
There is still more to come to celebrate Michael's year. If you are interested in joining the "Finest Ward Club in the City", then find out more here https://broadstreetwardclub.org/membership
10 Members of Broad Street Ward Club & Guests, ably led by Committee Member Richard Muir, thoroughly enjoyed a Gin Tasting event at The City of London Distillery on 7 November 2023.
The wonderfully charismatic Distillery host Harvey gave a fascinating background to Gin itself & the Distillery while everyone was sipping their welcome G&Ts.
A Tour & Gin Tasting followed & the evening concluded with the serving & consumption of charcuterie & cheese platters.
Visit to St Bride Foundation and Supper 2023
Visit to St Bride Foundation and Supper 2023
Visit to St Bride Foundation and Supper 2023
Wednesday 11th October 2023
A hidden gem! The Chairman was delighted to lead 24 members on a private visit to the St Bride Foundation where we learned about the history of printing and saw artefacts such as a 3500 year old papyrus and an original Caxton printed book (image above). Everyone thought it was a brilliant event curated by very knowledgeable and engaging staff. Afterwards we had a lovely supper at Cote St Pauls where they look after us so well.
A fabulous garden party at St Margaret Lothbury with our friends at Coleman Street Ward Club. The weather held up, the wine and conversation flowed, and we had a surprise addition of Basil Preuveneers as a 'strolling minstrel' on his piano accordion (yes, we had a singalong!). The Chairman presented a donation to Reverend Prebendary Jeremy Crossley on behalf of both Clubs. We were delighted that our President, the Senior Alderman Below The Chair, Michael Mainelli, was able to join us at the beginning of the evening...a big week for Michael with the election of the Lord Mayor on Friday. We were also joined by our friends and club members from the Honorable Company of Freemen of the City of London of North America, with whom we have a reciprocation, - it was a pleasure to meet the Master Jeffrey Lewis.
On behalf of the Chairman, Past Chairman Vincent Mercer kindly led a group of Club members on a fascinating visit to Apsley House and for lunch afterwards at the Chesterfield Arms in Shepherd Market.
The tour went very well, we were let in just ahead of the start time on 10.30, which meant we had the House to ourselves for the first half hour. The tour was led by the Keeper of the collection Olivia Fryman who gave a well presented enthusiastic and knowledgeable tour of the highlights of the collection.
The tour ended at the appointed 12 noon and (those of us going there) walked over to the Chesterfield Arms where we enjoyed a two-course lunch with wine.
News 2023
College of Arms 2023
College of Arms 2023
College of Arms 2023
Monday 24th July 2023
The Deputy Chairman was delighted to lead a group of Club members on a fascinating visit to the College of Arms
Former Windsor Herald William Hunt and Bluemantle Pursuivant Mark Scott were informative and entertaining. As well as explaining some of the basics of heraldry and the history of the building they showed u
Monday 24th July 2023
The Deputy Chairman was delighted to lead a group of Club members on a fascinating visit to the College of Arms
Former Windsor Herald William Hunt and Bluemantle Pursuivant Mark Scott were informative and entertaining. As well as explaining some of the basics of heraldry and the history of the building they showed us some fascinating and amazing examples from their library of grants of coats of arms etc - the most long-standing and significant collection of its kind, that survived the Great Fire and Blitz unscathed. From Tudor summaries of the arms of families of different parts of the country, to the first image of a Union Jack approved by George III for the Act of Union to create the United Kingdom in 1801, to Nelson’s own coat of arms as they evolved - signed off left-handed (after he’d lost his right arm) in 1897, to the current Royal Families’ arms and their lineage since Queen Victoria signed off by the late Queen and Prince Philip and various others including the Princess of Wales, though her husband still has to come in and sign his! William also talked us through our own Alderman’s rather complex coat of arms. Finally Mark shared some of his stories of being involved in the Coronation, including a picture of him in full Coronation gear with the current Duke of Wellington in the Iron Duke’s robes.
The evening was rounded off with a convivial bite and a glass, kindly provided by the College of Arms - and once the BSWC locusts had swept the table bare we headed off with heads full of questions about how eminent our own families were and whether a coat of arms might be a possibility!
The Chairman was delighted to be invited to attend the Cart Marking ceremony along with 20 members. Broad Street Ward Club have a close relationship with the Worshipful Company of Carmen, with Club member David Pugsley due to be Master Carmen shortly and his Consort is our Deputy Chairman, Sarah Sturrock.
Cart Ma
Saturday 22nd July 2023
The Chairman was delighted to be invited to attend the Cart Marking ceremony along with 20 members. Broad Street Ward Club have a close relationship with the Worshipful Company of Carmen, with Club member David Pugsley due to be Master Carmen shortly and his Consort is our Deputy Chairman, Sarah Sturrock.
Cart Marking showcases a truly unique collection of transport dating from the horse and cart to the latest, cleanest, greenest, and safest in use today.
The regulation of carts dates back over 750 years to the early days of the City, with the ceremony of Cart Marking evolving over time.
We saw handcarts, horses and carts, horse-drawn carriages, steam engines, military vehicles and motorcycles together with historic, vintage and specialist vehicles including the latest, powered by electricity and hydrogen, on display. The vehicles made their way to Guildhall Yard where they were greeted by the Lord Mayor of London, the Masters of not one but two City of London Livery companies and the Keeper of Guildhall Yard, all wearing their official robes and insignia. As each vehicle is presented for marking, a commentator told us about its history and relevance today.
Afterwards we enjoyed a wonderful lunch at Guildhall
Congratulations to our new Chairman Judith Rich OBE who was installed at our AGM last night. Judith is working on her programme of events, and has already arranged for members to attend the Annual Cart Marking by kind invitation of the Master Carman (July 22nd) and our traditional Garden Party at St Margarets Lothbury
Monday 15th May 2023
Congratulations to our new Chairman Judith Rich OBE who was installed at our AGM last night. Judith is working on her programme of events, and has already arranged for members to attend the Annual Cart Marking by kind invitation of the Master Carman (July 22nd) and our traditional Garden Party at St Margarets Lothbury with our friends at Coleman Street Ward Club (25th September). We also have a series of Monday Lunch Clubs starting on 12th June at the City University Club at Crutched Friars.
Keep an eye on the website as this exciting year for the Club unfolds - our Civic Lunch will be on 20th November at Mansion House to celebrate the election of our Club President Alderman Michael Mainelli (subject to election of course) and we already have over 200 people booked to attend.
The Chairman installed Sarah Sturrock as Deputy Chairman and the Immediate Past Chairman presented the Club's donation to St Margarets Lothbury to The Reverend Prebendary Jeremy Crossley
Afterwards we enjoyed a drinks and nibbles reception catching up with friends old and new.
Thanks to the Master Furniture Maker for allowing us to hold the AGM at Furniture Makers' Hall
The Chairman’s final event was “A walking tour with criminal intent”. We heard about cutpurses and vagabonds, considered ‘The Trial of the (18th) Century’, rioting apprentices, body snatchers, criminal gangs, foul prisons, and rough justice ... and even the odd poltergeist.
Conducted by Broad Street Ward Club m
Wednesday 19th April 2023
The Chairman’s final event was “A walking tour with criminal intent”. We heard about cutpurses and vagabonds, considered ‘The Trial of the (18th) Century’, rioting apprentices, body snatchers, criminal gangs, foul prisons, and rough justice ... and even the odd poltergeist.
Conducted by Broad Street Ward Club member and Clerk to the Chamberlain’s Court Laura Miller – who is also a City of London Guide and a Green Badge Guide - this was a fascinating walk which brought out the hidden history behind the modern City of London between Guildhall and St Pauls.
Afterwards we enjoyed a lovely supper at Cote St Pauls
Thank you Laura for giving up your valuable time and being such an engaging story-teller.
Broad Street Ward Club members and guests were privileged to attend the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Charity Lunch on Thursday 30th of March at the Guildhall. In attendance was HRH Prince Richard Duke of Gloucester. Our twenty-one members and guests included Lieutenant Colonel Bob Stuart DSO and MP for Beckenham* sinc
Thursday 30th March 2023
Broad Street Ward Club members and guests were privileged to attend the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Charity Lunch on Thursday 30th of March at the Guildhall. In attendance was HRH Prince Richard Duke of Gloucester. Our twenty-one members and guests included Lieutenant Colonel Bob Stuart DSO and MP for Beckenham* since May 2010 pictured here as we enjoyed a glass of champagne in the Crypt before ascending to the Great Hall for a great lunch. Queuing to be served at one of the four serving stations was a little chaotic, but very good fun. Sitting, as we were at long trestle table, we got to meet some very interesting people from other liveries and different associations.
Royal Courts of Justice and Middle Temple
Royal Courts of Justice and Middle Temple
Royal Courts of Justice and Middle Temple
Tuesday 21st March 2023
The visit to the Royal Courts of Justice, with lunch afterwards at Middle Temple Hall, was a great success with 46 members and guests enjoying the event. The guides were excellent, giving a great insight into our legal system and colourful descriptions of the Courts and artefacts. The lunch was excellent value and a
Tuesday 21st March 2023
The visit to the Royal Courts of Justice, with lunch afterwards at Middle Temple Hall, was a great success with 46 members and guests enjoying the event. The guides were excellent, giving a great insight into our legal system and colourful descriptions of the Courts and artefacts. The lunch was excellent value and afterwards we were allowed to look at the 29ft long, oak-beamed High Table, used by Masters of the Bench for generations. It was made of three planks cut from a single oak tree in Windsor forest, a gift from Elizabeth I, and floated down the Thames. The table was installed within the Hall during construction and has never left since.
We had our own construction expert with us, Club member Bill Haynes, whose family firm laid the foundations of the Royal Courts of Justice!
Chairman Lisa Preuveneers in front of the High Table
Tracks of Their Years
Michael Napier CBE KC: Reminiscences of a Disaster Lawyer
Michael Napier CBE KC: Reminiscences of a Disaster Lawyer
Monday 6th March 2023: City University Club
Members really enjoyed hearing from two people closely connected with the Club as they introduced us to the ‘tracks of their years’. Our first speaker, Immediate Past Chairman, Commander James Nisbet, told us of the memories brought back to him by such songs “London Calling” by The Clash, “Rule
Monday 6th March 2023: City University Club
Members really enjoyed hearing from two people closely connected with the Club as they introduced us to the ‘tracks of their years’. Our first speaker, Immediate Past Chairman, Commander James Nisbet, told us of the memories brought back to him by such songs “London Calling” by The Clash, “Rule Britannia” and “ Faith” George Michael.
Our second speaker, The Reverend Prebendary Jeremy Crossley from St Margaret’s Lothbury, our Ward church, chose “Hey Jude” by Beatles, “Can’t Help Falling in Love With You “ we heard Elvis’s version and “I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me” an anthem set to music by C.H.H. Parry.
Thanks to Basil for presenting the music and those singing along and ‘chair-dancing’. And thanks to Karima and her team at City University Club who served up a delicious meal with wine. Feedback received indicates this format should be used again with different speakers and at a different venue.
Michael Napier CBE KC: Reminiscences of a Disaster Lawyer
Michael Napier CBE KC: Reminiscences of a Disaster Lawyer
Michael Napier CBE KC: Reminiscences of a Disaster Lawyer
We were able to hold our meeting in the Common Council Members Dining room at Guildhall to hear our speaker Michael Napier, one of the most respected and notable lawyers of our time. Michael is a former Chairman of Irwin Mitchell LLP solicitors of Sheffield and a past President of the Law Society. We were joined by guests from other The
We were able to hold our meeting in the Common Council Members Dining room at Guildhall to hear our speaker Michael Napier, one of the most respected and notable lawyers of our time. Michael is a former Chairman of Irwin Mitchell LLP solicitors of Sheffield and a past President of the Law Society. We were joined by guests from other The United Wards Club and members of the City of London Solicitors' Company.
Michael gave us a summary of his involvement in representing the victims of major transport disasters, the first main one being the Manchester Airport Crash where he represented the family of the co-pilot, through almost every major incident thereafter. Among other clients there was Charles Bronson, currently up for parole and the subject of a television documentary.
Michael took us though the Saddam Hussain guns for Iraq Babylon event, the Matrix Churchill Court Case and the subsequent Scott Enquiry, the outcome of which was eventually the end of the John Major Government at the subsequent General Election.
Michael took us through his views on Legal Aid availability issues and the John Mortimore (Rumpole) “dirty books” case. Finally, he gave us his book recommendation. The Rule of Law by Tom Bingham. (Amazon £8.99)
There were many questions and answers at the end of his talk and Chairman Lisa gave a vote of thanks for a great speech.
There followed a very good buffet dinner.
A very good evening enjoyed by all
Tour of the FCDO and Lunch
Michael Napier CBE KC: Reminiscences of a Disaster Lawyer
Veterans' Garden - Big Curry Lunch
Our October 2022 private tour of the - usually off-limits to the public - Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office building in Whitehall, was so popular, we arranged a second outing on 13th February 2023.
Completed in 1868 when Britain was at the height of colonial power, no expense was spared; inside or out, in its construction. The
Our October 2022 private tour of the - usually off-limits to the public - Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office building in Whitehall, was so popular, we arranged a second outing on 13th February 2023.
Completed in 1868 when Britain was at the height of colonial power, no expense was spared; inside or out, in its construction. The impressive exterior, with its white Portland stone façade featuring balustrades, columns, sculptures of former monarchs and politicians and allegorical figures of Law, gives no hint of the lavish interior lurking inside. This grand building hosts the Locarno Suite, originally designed for diplomatic banquets.
Our knowledgeable volunteer guides, Graham Holland and Neville Jones enthusiastically guided us around. We saw the gilded barrel-vaulted ceiling of the Cabinet Room (now known as the Grand Reception Room), the grand staircases, the striking Durbar Court richly decorated with marble statues. We even caught a glimpse of number 10 Downing Street from the inside of the Foreign Secretary’s corner office. And we were able to look directly onto Horse Guards Parade.
The tour was followed by lunch in the private lower ground dining room at the Red Lion conveniently located just across the road in Whitehall itself.
Veterans' Garden - Big Curry Lunch
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars Banquet January 2023
Veterans' Garden - Big Curry Lunch
Chairman Lisa Preuveneers was delighted to attend as the Duke of Kent unveiled the Veterans’ Garden in Guildhall Yard on 14 February in support of The Lord Mayor's Big Curry Lunch. Broad Street Ward Club members are very much looking forward to attending the lunch in the fabulous Great Hall on Thursday 30 March. Money raised will be us
Chairman Lisa Preuveneers was delighted to attend as the Duke of Kent unveiled the Veterans’ Garden in Guildhall Yard on 14 February in support of The Lord Mayor's Big Curry Lunch. Broad Street Ward Club members are very much looking forward to attending the lunch in the fabulous Great Hall on Thursday 30 March. Money raised will be used to help Armed Forces veterans find employment and new careers. Tickets for the Lunch cost £100 and includes unlimited curry, beer and wine. more details:
Club member Christopher Seow shown with the Duke of Kent and Basil Preuveneers
Whisky Tasting January 2023
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars Banquet January 2023
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars Banquet January 2023
A group of keen spirit aficionados attended a whisky tasting & supper event at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society in Greville Street, London on 31 January 2023.
The Chairman, Lisa Preuveneers, some Past Chairmen, Members & Guests enjoyed a wonderful tasting of 6 whiskies including a lamb rump supper organised by Committee Member Richard Muir
A group of keen spirit aficionados attended a whisky tasting & supper event at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society in Greville Street, London on 31 January 2023.
The Chairman, Lisa Preuveneers, some Past Chairmen, Members & Guests enjoyed a wonderful tasting of 6 whiskies including a lamb rump supper organised by Committee Member Richard Muir.
The host was the Brand Ambassador of the Society, John McCheyne who expertly guided everyone though the whiskies in addition to providing some very amusing anecdotes & stories as appropriate.
Tasting notes were provided & a very happy & educational evening was had by all
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars Banquet January 2023
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars Banquet January 2023
The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars Banquet January 2023
The Chairman, Lisa Preuveneers, was delighted to accept Master Alan S. Cook, of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars’ invitation to attend their annual banquet at Mansion House. A wonderful meal was served in the magnificent Egyptian Hall. This grand room has nothing Egyptian about its decoration. It should be known as the Roman Hall,
The Chairman, Lisa Preuveneers, was delighted to accept Master Alan S. Cook, of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars’ invitation to attend their annual banquet at Mansion House. A wonderful meal was served in the magnificent Egyptian Hall. This grand room has nothing Egyptian about its decoration. It should be known as the Roman Hall, as members will find out later this year when we at Broad Street Ward Club hold our Annual Civic Lunch. Mansion House has been the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London since 1752. Built during the reign of George II, its grandeur was designed to reflect the City of London's position as one of the world's leading financial and trading centres. Which it does admirably!
Lisa and consort Basil thank the Master and the Company for a very convivial evening.
news 2022
“Flying Drones in London: an expert insight” Sept 2022
A panel of experts were assembled to discuss the use and abuse of drones, and how the law relating drones and their use is basically non-existent.
Graham Brown, CEO of the Association of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems UK, kicked off the discussion by showing a video that demonstrated the many uses of drone technology. Dr Dimitri Pa
A panel of experts were assembled to discuss the use and abuse of drones, and how the law relating drones and their use is basically non-existent.
Graham Brown, CEO of the Association of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems UK, kicked off the discussion by showing a video that demonstrated the many uses of drone technology. Dr Dimitri Panagiotakopoulos from the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic Management Research group at Cranfield University, continued the conversation on a more technical level. Our next speaker, barrister, Richard Ryan, a drone pilot permit himself, gave us 3 examples of case law demonstrating how much in its infancy the regulations and legal remedies for drone misuse is. Our final speaker, Chief Inspector Simon Bachelor from the Metropolitan Police Service’s Counter Drones Unit, summed it up nicely saying we are at the same stage in understanding the risks associated with operating drones, as we were 100 years ago when a person had to walk in front of an automobile carrying a red flag!
Our thanks to Janice Phayre and colleagues at high-tech firm Sapphire, based in the Shard, for hosting our event which raised £130.91 which has been donated to the Lord Mayor’s Appeal City Giving Day 2022.
City of London Freemen's School Prize Giving Day 2022
The Chairman, Lisa Preuveneers, was invited to attend the school prize giving day. One of three independent schools owned by the City of London Corporation, Freemen’s School was originally founded in Brixton in 1854 to educate orphans of the freemen of the city. The school is now set in the beautiful grounds of Ashtead Park in Surrey. It
The Chairman, Lisa Preuveneers, was invited to attend the school prize giving day. One of three independent schools owned by the City of London Corporation, Freemen’s School was originally founded in Brixton in 1854 to educate orphans of the freemen of the city. The school is now set in the beautiful grounds of Ashtead Park in Surrey. It is still possible for such orphan children to be educated as "Foundationers" at the school with the costs of their education borne by the City of London Corporation.
During the VIP pre-lunch reception, Lisa had the opportunity to talk to some of the year 12 students and visit a few of the high-tech facilities available in the Main House. For example, a room that enables in-class students to interact with overseas classmates.
Lunch was hosted by the Headmaster, Roland Martin and attended by school Governors, representatives from the Corporation of London, Guilds, Livery Companies and Broad Street Ward Club. After lunch, the Chairman of the school governors, Deputy Philp Woodhouse, invited the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Vincent Keaveny to present prizes and trophies for the 2021/22 academic - many of which were donated by the City of London.
Master & Clerk's Lunch at Drapers Hall - 16 June 2022
Master & Clerk's Lunch at Drapers Hall - 16 June 2022
Master & Clerk's Lunch at Drapers Hall - 16 June 2022
The Chairman, Lisa Preuveneers and Hon Secretary Christine Cook were privileged to be invited to the Master and Clerk's lunch at Draper's Hall.
Thank you Master David Chalk and Clerk Richard Winstanley OBE for the superb lunch and the fabulous entertainment from the London Youth Choirs - please do support it if you can.
Polo Day - 26th June 2022
Master & Clerk's Lunch at Drapers Hall - 16 June 2022
Master & Clerk's Lunch at Drapers Hall - 16 June 2022
Broad Street Ward Club enjoy a day out Ham Polo Club.
Six members of Broad Street Ward Club enjoyed a great day out at Ham Polo Club near Richmond upon Thames in southwest London. The sun was out, the terrace looked great, a wonderful atmosphere, lovely food and of course, the Polo – the Summer Tournament Finals. Thank you United Wards Club for inviting us to join you.
News 2021
Civic Luncheon 2021
The Chairman had the pleasure and privilege of hosting Alderman and Sheriff Alison Gowman and her consort Glenn Hurstfield that the Club's Civic Luncheon at Guildhall Crypts. It was a glittering affair with the Masters of all of the Livery Companies and Guilds in the Ward also present as well as other civic dignitaries.
160 Members and guests enjoyed a lovely lunch which also provided the opportunity to present our Deputy Chairman, Judith Rich OBE, with gifts to thank her for more than 10 years' service as Membership Secretary to the club.
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