COACHMAKERS' AND COACH HARNESS MAKERS' GALA DINNER: 1 JUNE

The coat of arms of the Company.  I think the yellow carriages are charming.

The Coachmakers and Coach Harness Makers, led by their Master Vice Admiral Tim Laurence (knighted and appointed KCVO shortly afterwards), staged a superb Gala Banquet at the Guildhall on 1 June.  Both Rosemary and I were privileged to be invited.  The Master Coachmaker was accompanied by HRH Princess Royal, who is Master Butcher for this year.

The evening began with Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines in the Guildhall Yard who beat retreat in a most impressive fashion.  We then went into Guildhall which was described in the Master's speech as one of the most memorable spaces in London, if not in England.

We had an evening of entertainment including City of London Sinfonia with Emily Garland soprano, a performing group that interpreted con vivace and con molto brio arias from Verdi and Puccini.  Finally there was a sparkling dance performance by the now famous Strictly Come Dancing personality Anton du Beke and Erin Boag.

The evening had a seroius side which was to raise money for Motorvations http://www.motorvations.net/
as well as highlight the other charitable work of the Company.  For more details go to http://www.coachmakers.co.uk/

One gained the impression that the Company had come together to stage an excellent evening.  It was both a privilege and great fun to be a guest.